Unnao police arrest chain-snatching gang after late-night encounter

Unnao police have successfully busted an inter-district chain-snatching gang, marking a significant breakthrough in tackling such crimes in the region. In a joint operation involving the Dahi police station, Special Operations Group (SOG), and surveillance teams, two suspects were apprehended following a late-night encounter. One of the accused, Aslam Tanda alias Tanda, was injured in police firing, while his accomplice, Mohammad Atiq alias Raju alias Kaju, was caught on the spot. Authorities recovered stolen gold chains, an illegal firearm, cartridges, and the motorcycle used in the crimes.

The investigation began after a chain-snatching incident on July 26 in the Awas Vikas Park area, where a woman was targeted by two bikers while she was out for a morning walk. Based on the victim’s complaint, police registered a case and initiated a probe with the help of SOG and surveillance teams. CCTV footage and technical evidence led them to the suspects.

The breakthrough came on Friday night during a vehicle check at Basti Kheda Mod. When police tried to intercept two suspicious individuals on a bike, they reportedly opened fire in an attempt to escape. In retaliatory action, one suspect was injured and subsequently arrested, while the other was nabbed without resistance.

Upon searching the duo, police recovered the gold chain stolen in Unnao, another chain linked to a similar incident in Lucknow’s Para area, an illegal firearm, cartridges, and the motorcycle used in the crimes. The injured suspect was taken to the district hospital for treatment.

Further investigation revealed that both suspects are seasoned criminals with multiple cases of robbery, violations of the Arms Act, and charges under the Gangster Act registered against them in districts like Lucknow, Barabanki, and Sitapur. Police are now interrogating the duo to uncover details about other gang members and additional chain-snatching incidents across the region.

Unnao police officials have hailed this operation as a major step in curbing organized crime. They have assured residents that strict action will continue against criminals to ensure public safety.