Surat : Criminal activities involving auto rickshaws continue to be a concern in Surat, as highlighted by a recent incident where a 52-year-old woman was robbed of jewelry and cash while traveling in one. The victim, Sunandaben Valya, a resident of Navagam Dindoli area, had ventured out to buy vegetables when she fell prey to the robbery.

According to the police complaint, the incident occurred on Wednesday evening around 6:30 pm when an auto rickshaw driver and two women passengers approached Sunandaben. They falsely informed her that some goons were after her and persuaded her to sit in the auto rickshaw for safety. Subsequently, the auto driver drove towards Udhna Dindoli Bridge, where they snatched her jewelry and cash from her purse before dropping her off on the road.

Sunandaben, originally from Dhulia, Maharashtra, lives in Dindoli with her family. The incident has sparked concerns about the safety of passengers, particularly those traveling alone at night or early in the morning. Instances of passengers being robbed by criminally minded auto rickshaw drivers in the railway and bus station areas have been reported in the past.

The police have registered a case at the Dindoli police station and are investigating the matter. It is advisable to people to avoid traveling alone in an auto rickshaw where there is already a passenger and to remain vigilant of their surroundings. Authorities are urged to take stringent action against such criminal gangs to ensure the safety of the public.