Puri: Odisha Police have arrested 103 snatchers in Puri over the first two days of the Rath Yatra festival. The arrests were made as part of a coordinated campaign against snatching and pickpocketing in the pilgrim town.
Police said anti-snatching squads along with plain-clothed personnel have been deployed at key locations to check thefts and ensure devotee safety. “Odisha Police has launched a special campaign against street crime during the Rath Yatra in Puri.
Members of the anti-snatching squads and plain-clothed police personnel have been deployed at several places in the city. Altogether 103 snatchers have been arrested in the first two days of the festival,” a police officer said.
Officials also recovered 203 stolen mobile phones from the arrested persons. Police said the devices will be returned to their rightful owners after legal formalities are completed.
As part of the security drive, personnel have been stationed on the Grand Road, at the beach, bus stands, railway station and other crowded spots in Puri. Round-the-clock surveillance is being carried out through CCTVs installed on the Grand Road and other vantage points.
Urging devotees to stay alert, Odisha Police in a statement said, “The devotees should remain extremely vigilant for safe custody of their mobile phones, wallets, ornaments and other belongings during the Rath Yatra. They should immediately alert the police personnel about any suspicious element in their surroundings.”
