Sambalpur: Helmet-Wearing Robbers Strike Again; Snatch Chain from Woman’s Neck
Incident Overview
Sambalpur: In Sambalpur, robbers are once again on the loose, targeting unsuspecting victims in dramatic, film-style operations. Before anyone realizes, these culprits execute their thefts and flee swiftly. In recent months, a gang operating on bikes had caused trouble, snatching gold, money, and mobile phones from people. While police efforts had temporarily subdued them, the gang seems to have resumed its activities.
The Recent Incident: Chain Snatching
On a recent afternoon, near Eidgaha Padia in the Dhanupali area, two helmet-wearing robbers riding a fast bike snatched a gold chain from a woman. She was returning home after depositing money at a nearby bank. The incident happened around 3:30 to 4 PM as the robbers took advantage of an isolated moment.
Before anyone could react, they sped away. The woman immediately reported the incident to the Dhanupali police station. The police have registered a case and are currently investigating, examining CCTV footage from the area.
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Past Incidents of Theft
Robberies like these are not uncommon in Sambalpur. For instance, in January, a couple traveling home on a scooter from a family event in Jhaduapada fell victim to robbers. Around 4 to 5 PM, near Mudipada Water Tank Square, the wife’s gold chain was snatched by criminals. Similarly, in June, another incident occurred near Ashoka Talkies. A woman and her mother-in-law, returning home after purchasing gold jewelry, had their valuables snatched by robbers. In both cases, the culprits wore helmets, making it challenging for the police to identify and apprehend them.
Rising Concerns Over Crime
The increasing number of robberies, as well as the rise in other crimes such as stabbings, drug dealing (Corex, brown sugar), and illegal liquor sales, is raising concerns among residents. Despite police measures like installing CCTV cameras at key junctions and setting up assistance centers, the criminals are using alternative routes to avoid detection.
Police Response
Sambalpur Police, at the start of the new year, launched a campaign to take strict action against thieves and robbers. However, the inability to apprehend helmet-wearing robbers has sparked criticism. People are urging the police to intensify their efforts and implement more effective strategies to curb these crimes.
