Who Are the Snatcher Gang Disguised as ‘Babas’ on Delhi Streets?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Delhi Police apprehended a gang posing as spiritual leaders.
- The suspects executed a robbery in broad daylight.
- They used religious attire to gain the victim's trust.
- CCTV footage played a crucial role in their capture.
- The investigation revealed a network of accomplices.
New Delhi, Aug 5 (NationPress) In a shocking development, the Delhi Police have apprehended four suspects who allegedly masqueraded as spiritual figures or 'babas' to execute a robbery in broad daylight.
The incident took place on August 1, when a woman traveling from Moti Nagar to Connaught Place in a Rapido taxi became the target of a group of men disguised as religious figures covered in ash.
As per a press release from the West District Police, the woman stated that while her vehicle was stopped at the Shadipur Flyover red light, three men, aged between 20 and 25, approached her taxi.
Clad in priestly garments, they initially solicited alms. The woman gave them Rs 200, but shortly after, one of them snatched a gold and diamond ring from her middle finger and fled the scene. A case was swiftly filed at the Moti Nagar Police Station, prompting an investigation.
Under the direction of Inspector Varun Dalal, SHO Moti Nagar, and the guidance of ACP Vijay Singh, a specialized team was assembled.
CCTV footage from near the crime location was thoroughly scrutinized, revealing that the suspects had escaped in an auto-rickshaw. Investigators tracked down the registered owner of the auto, who disclosed that it had been rented to one Vinod Kamat. His mobile number was also provided to the authorities.
Vinod Kamat was detained near Ashoka Park Metro Station. During questioning, he admitted his participation and led police to his accomplices, Kabir and Birju, in Punjabi Bagh.
All three confessed to their involvement and disclosed that the stolen ring was sold to a local jeweler named Gurcharan Singh for Rs 26,000. A raid at Singh’s shop in GTB Nagar resulted in his arrest.
During interrogation, he confessed to purchasing and melting the stolen ring, surrendering the melted gold and 61 small diamond pieces to the police.
The investigation revealed that the group had meticulously planned the crime using religious attire to avoid suspicion. Vinod Kamat acted as the driver and facilitator. Kabir, the son of Birju, and Amar, who remains at large, are relatives and co-conspirators.
The recovered items include the melted gold, 61 diamonds from the ring, the auto-rickshaw used in their escape, and the religious garments and makeup kit employed for disguise.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (West District) Vichitra Veer confirmed the arrests and stated that efforts are ongoing to capture the absconding suspect.