FARIDKOT, Feb 21 — The Faridkot police have dismantled a notorious inter-district criminal syndicate responsible for major thefts across Punjab, resulting in the arrest of six individuals. During the operation, officials recovered Rs 2.20 lakh in cash and a .32 bore revolver from the suspects, who are linked to a string of high-stakes robberies.
The investigation was triggered by a February 7 heist at an oil factory in Jaito, where thieves decamped with Rs 15.50 lakh, a licensed firearm, and sensitive documents. SSP Dr. Pragya Jain stated that the gang utilized deceptive strategies to evade detection, including the use of female members to conduct daytime surveillance of potential targets.
The accused have been identified as Mangal Singh, Nirmala Devi, Rita Rani, Pappu Singh, Sita Rani, and Veer Singh. Police officials noted that the group attempted to create a fake digital trail by displaying mobile phones in front of CCTV cameras while keeping the devices on airplane mode. Additionally, one member reportedly feigned a physical disability by limping to confuse investigators.
The breakthrough occurred after police scanned footage from a 120-kilometer radius, utilizing the new CCTV network in Jaito. Authorities maintained that the vehicle used in the crime had been stolen earlier from Ferozepur. Interrogation suggests the gang was active in Moga and Ferozepur districts and was planning another robbery at the time of their capture.
