In a major crackdown on bike thieves, police in West Garo Hills arrested a 32-year-old kingpin and three accomplices. Seventeen two-wheelers stolen from different locations have been recovered from their possession.
The accused kingpin has been identified as Jamesmond K. Marak a resident of Balsrigittim under Bajengdoba police limits in North Garo Hills, and his alleged accomplices are Tengwal R Marak (28) of Jamge (A), Songsak in East Garo Hills, Jangkal B Marak (31) of Rongchek Apal, Songsak and Judistil T Sangma (33) of Dosikgittim, Rongjeng in East Garo Hills.
West Garo Hills Superintendent of Police Abraham T Sangma said the arrest was made in an operation, led by CI (Sadar), West Garo Hills, Tura and Officer In-Charge, Tura PS, which is part of a weeklong drive against bike lifters.
He said the operation was conducted in close coordination with the counterparts in Assam.
The accused persons have a history of similar offenses and were previously arrested in several bike theft cases. However, after securing bail, they resumed their illegal activities, the SP said.
“Investigations have revealed that the stolen bikes were being transported and sold through a well-organised network,” he said, adding that police are actively working to dismantle the network and recover more stolen vehicles from various parts of the district and other states.
A case has been registered under section BNS 2023, and further investigation is in progress.
Meanwhile, the district police have urged the general public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to vehicle or two-wheeler theft to the nearest police station or contact the police control room, Tura at 8837423053 and 9089199064.
Further, all two-wheeler owners are advised to park their motorcycle or scooty in a secured place and install vehicle tracker/GPS system or secure the two-wheeler with steering lock or wheel lock. “These preventive measures will not only provide additional security to your two wheelers but will also deter the criminals from attempts to steal it,” Sangma said.