Surat: The Salabatpura police in Surat have apprehended a gang that targeted passengers in rickshaws, stealing their money and belongings. A total of seven individuals have been arrested, and a rickshaw-moped, as well as assets worth Rs 2.05 lakh, have been seized from the suspects. This crackdown has led to the resolution of crimes in two police station jurisdictions.
The gang's modus operandi involved making passengers board rickshaws and then distracting them by making them walk back and forth, after which they would steal cash and other items. Following a complaint filed with the police, officers patrolling the area arrested Asif alias Aya Aziz Sheikh, Afzal alias Khajur Alauddin Sheikh, and Imran alias Sonu Salim Sheikh, all residents of the Salabatpura area. Subsequent interrogations led to the arrest of four more individuals, bringing the total number of arrested suspects to seven.
Police have recovered Rs 55,000 in cash, a rickshaw valued at Rs 1 lakh, and a moped worth Rs 50,000 used in the crimes. The total value of the recovered assets amounts to Rs 2.05 lakh. Investigations have resolved two crimes previously registered at the Pune and Salabatpura police stations.
The arrested suspects have a history of criminal activity. Afzal alias Khajoor has been detained for four offenses, while Imran alias Sonu was previously involved in a case registered at the Salabatpura police station.
