Noida’s law enforcement scored a decisive victory against organized crime with the bust of an interstate mobile theft gang, resulting in the confiscation of 821 handsets worth ₹8 crore. The raid has sent shockwaves through underground networks reliant on stolen tech.
The operation unfolded dramatically at dawn in an inconspicuous warehouse tucked away in Noida’s industrial belt. A joint team of local police and anti-crime units swooped in, catching the culprits in the act of wiping data and altering serial numbers on high-end smartphones.
Investigators uncovered a well-oiled machine: phones pilfered from bustling metros were transported in secret compartments of trucks to Noida, where technicians restored them to near-mint condition. The gang then flooded e-commerce platforms and street vendors with these ‘budget’ deals, raking in massive illicit profits.
‘This wasn’t just petty theft; it was a full-fledged criminal enterprise,’ remarked Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sector 20, highlighting the gang’s interstate connections spanning Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and beyond. Recovered items boast an impressive array—from flagship Androids to latest iOS flagships—many still bearing traces of their violent snatchings.
Police have identified buyers in at least five states and are preparing charges under IPC sections for theft, cheating, and organized crime. Public appeals are out for owners to claim their devices via verified IMEI records.
The takedown comes amid rising mobile snatching incidents in the NCR, with stats showing a 30% uptick this year. Experts attribute this to lucrative resale values and lax online verification. Noida Police’s success story could inspire similar crackdowns elsewhere, potentially curbing a ₹500 crore annual black market.