Recent data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reveals a noteworthy decrease in vehicle thefts in Ghaziabad, dropping from 2,267 cases in 2021 to 2,036 in the past year. Despite this positive trend, the city continues to grapple with approximately five reported vehicle thefts daily, highlighting an ongoing challenge for law enforcement.
Senior police officials attribute these thefts to organized gangs, noting that individuals previously apprehended often return to their criminal activities after serving jail time. The majority of incidents occur in restricted parking areas near residential areas, parks, and markets. Authorities emphasize the need for residents to utilize designated parking zones and ensure the presence of someone to safeguard their vehicles.
Car thieves employ two primary methods – stealing vehicles on demand or disassembling cars for parts, subsequently selling them to scrap dealers. The swift disposal of stolen vehicles, often within hours, poses challenges for investigative efforts. Salvage yards in locations like Satiganj (Meerut), Ghaziabad, and other parts of Delhi-NCR serve as hubs for dismantling stolen cars.
Technology plays a significant role in these thefts, with reported instances of high-tech devices being used to hack digital codes securing cars. In a September 2023 incident, police arrested two individuals employing such devices to bypass Engine Control Modules (ECMs) and steal cars.
Police commissioner Ajay Kumar Mishra underscores the impact of removing scrap dealers from Meerut and Ghaziabad, attributing it to the reduction in vehicle thefts. He highlights the use of technology, such as the e-vahan app, by traffic personnel to identify stolen vehicles through registration details.
While acknowledging the involvement of locals in house burglaries, authorities stress the importance of community cooperation, increased night patrolling, and the installation of CCTV cameras as deterrents. Recent incidents, including a December 4 theft of cash and jewelry worth Rs 10 lakh from a Nandgram residence, emphasize the ongoing need for vigilance and collaborative efforts between law enforcement and residents to curb criminal activities effectively.
