Thefts in Metro, a new trend

After bus stands, train stations and even the airport, thieves have found a new target — Metro stations, reports Vijaita Singh.

After bus stands, train stations and even the airport, thieves have found a new target — Metro stations.

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A jeweller lost 250 grams of gold when he put his baggage through an X-ray scanner at Karol Bagh Metro station two days ago, police said.

He is not alone.

This year 127 cases of theft have been reported from Metro stations across the city. Last year, 198 cases were reported.

The latest victim — Sanjeev Nischal, a jeweller — entered Karol Bagh Metro station on November 17 around 6.30 pm as he wanted to take a train for Tilak Nagar.

“Nischal told us that he put his bag on the X-ray scanner and went for a security check. When he went to collect it, he found the bag missing,” said Bhairon Singh Gurjar, additional deputy commissioner of police (railways).

“We examined the CCTV camera footage but could not gather any clues,” Gurjar said.

Police said they even took the help of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) officials posted at the Metro station but could not get any details.

According to the police, most thefts take place during peak hours when the Metro stations are packed.

“Thieves take advantage of the crowd and manage to pick stuff. The most common items that are stolen are mobile phones and wallets,” said the officer.

Cameras are not always of use as certain areas are not covered by them, the officer said.

Police said there had been several instances where thieves carried sharp objects inside the Metro stations and used them to cut open bags to steal items.

“The majority of complaints come from Rajiv Chowk Metro station. We have discussed it with the Metro officials,” said the officer.