Was a Rapido Rider Involved in Mobile Thefts Arrested in Delhi?
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Synopsis
A 36-year-old Rapido rider has been arrested in Delhi for his involvement in mobile thefts, with law enforcement seizing a firearm and 11 stolen phones. This incident highlights the troubling rise in organized mobile thefts in the city, raising concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of current law enforcement measures.
Key Takeaways
- 36-year-old Rapido rider arrested for mobile theft.
- Seized 11 stolen mobile phones and a firearm.
- Operation led by Crime Branch in Delhi.
- Organized network involved in mobile thefts revealed.
- Police efforts ongoing to trace stolen devices.
New Delhi, Sep 21 (NationPress) In a significant operation, a 36-year-old Rapido rider and alleged mobile phone thief was apprehended in Seemapuri, located in north-west Delhi. The individual, identified as Saleem Khan from Old Mustafabad, was found in possession of a firearm along with two live cartridges.
During the arrest, law enforcement officials also confiscated 11 mobile phones that were reportedly stolen.
The Crime Branch's ER-II team had received valuable intelligence, aided by technical means, leading to the capture of Khan, who was implicated in the underground trade of stolen mobile devices. Investigations revealed that Khan had been purchasing stolen phones from pickpockets operating within the Delhi Metro and various public transit systems.
Inspector Sunil Kumar Kundu led the operation under the supervision of ACP Kailash Chander, resulting in Khan's arrest under the Arms Act, as stated by Vikram Singh, Deputy Commissioner of Police for the Crime Branch.
During questioning, Khan admitted that he was in cahoots with pickpockets who targeted commuters in the Delhi Metro and local buses, selling the stolen phones to him. Subsequently, he would offload these devices to a man named Wasim, who determined their selling price and final buyers, according to police reports.
This incident sheds light on a well-organized network involved in mobile theft, illustrating the journey from the initial crime to the eventual user through various intermediaries.
Khan claimed that he carried a makeshift pistol for personal safety. On the day of his arrest, he had just collected 11 stolen mobile phones from Wasim in DLF Bhopura, Uttar Pradesh.
Authorities apprehended him while he was en route home, awaiting further delivery instructions.
Ongoing investigations aim to uncover and apprehend additional members of this criminal network.
The seized mobile devices are being tracked through IMEI searches, and efforts are in place to return them to their legitimate owners.
Notably, Khan has a prior record involving an NDPS case in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, as per the police report.
Point of View
This incident underscores the need for enhanced public vigilance and robust law enforcement strategies to combat organized crime in urban areas. The collaboration between police and technological resources is crucial in addressing the growing issue of mobile thefts and ensuring public safety.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the arrest of the Rapido rider?
The arrest was prompted by intelligence gathered by the Crime Branch, indicating the rider's involvement in purchasing stolen mobile phones from pickpockets.
What items were seized from the accused?
Authorities seized a pistol, two live cartridges, and 11 mobile phones from the accused.
How is the police investigating the stolen phones?
The police are tracing the recovered mobile phones through IMEI searches to return them to their rightful owners.
What prior offenses does the accused have?
The accused has a previous involvement in a narcotics case in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
Are there more individuals involved in this crime network?
Yes, the police are conducting further investigations to identify and apprehend other members of the organized crime module.
