Lucknow – In a significant breakthrough, the Lucknow Police arrested two men accused of snatching a gold locket from a minor in the Krishnanagar area. The two individuals, who have been identified as Sabir Kumar (19) and Bharat Kohli (23), were apprehended by alert citizens while attempting to flee the scene on the evening of October 15, 2024. This case is part of a larger criminal network involving motorcycle thefts and organized snatching incidents in crowded market areas.
The Incident
The incident occurred at Mangal Bazar, a bustling commercial area, under the jurisdiction of Krishnanagar Police Station. According to the First Information Report filed on October 16, 2024, Sabir Kumar and Bharat Kohli snatched a gold locket from a minor, a resident of Indralok Colony, Krishnanagar. The victim’s father, lodged a formal complaint after the assailants were subdued by members of the public.
Vigilant Citizens Play Key Role
Eyewitnesses to the crime reported that the two men approached the boy while he was walking through the market. In a swift move, they grabbed the gold locket from his neck and tried to escape. However, their attempt was foiled when bystanders noticed the commotion and pursued the fleeing duo. Both Sabir Kumar and Bharat Kohli were apprehended and handed over to the local police.
Inspector R.P. Sharma of Krishnanagar Police Station praised the courage and vigilance of the public in helping arrest the criminals. “This successful arrest would not have been possible without the immediate response of the people in the market,” Inspector Sharma said. “The swift action taken by the community demonstrates the power of public involvement in crime prevention.”
The Accused: A History of Theft and Snatching
Further investigation revealed that Sabir Kumar and Bharat Kohli have been involved in numerous criminal activities, including motorcycle theft and gold snatching.
- Sabir Kumar, aged 19, is a resident of Badalikheda, under the jurisdiction of Sarojininagar Police Station, Lucknow.
- Bharat Kohli, aged 23, hails from Block-5055, Sultanpuri, a densely populated neighborhood in Delhi’s Outer District. Bharat had been residing temporarily in Badalikheda, Lucknow, where he joined Sabir in their nefarious activities.
Preliminary police reports suggest that the duo had been systematically stealing motorcycles parked in crowded markets and roadside areas. Once they had a stolen vehicle, they would ride into different parts of the city, particularly targeting women and children in busy markets. Their modus operandi involved committing the crime swiftly and then fleeing on their stolen motorcycle before the victims or bystanders could react.
A Pattern of Crimes
Inspector Sharma also disclosed that several other cases of theft and snatching have been linked to the duo. Police records show that Sabir Kumar and Bharat Kohli were already under investigation for their involvement in a series of snatching incidents across multiple police jurisdictions in Lucknow. Among the registered cases are:
- FIR No. 348/24, under Section 309(2), at Krishnanagar Police Station, Lucknow.
- FIR No. 14030400/480-2024, under Sections 304(2), 317(2), at Bhanpar Police Station, Lucknow.
The arrested individuals have reportedly confessed to using the stolen motorcycles to commit snatching crimes in various parts of the city and selling the stolen valuables to fund their operations. After selling the stolen goods, they would split the proceeds and move on to new targets. The police are currently investigating whether the duo is part of a larger gang operating in the region.
Legal Proceedings Underway
Both Sabir Kumar and Bharat Kohli are currently in police custody, and legal proceedings have commenced. The Krishnanagar police have initiated the recovery of stolen goods from the accused’s possession, including a motorcycle believed to have been used during the locket snatching. Further interrogation is expected to reveal more about their criminal network and the locations of other stolen items.
As per the Uttar Pradesh Police guidelines, necessary legal actions are being undertaken, and the case has been fast-tracked for investigation. The accused will face charges under sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) related to theft, snatching, and the illegal possession of stolen property.
Public Safety Measures and Police Appeal
Following the arrest, the Lucknow Police Commissionerate has urged the public to remain cautious, particularly in crowded areas. Snatching incidents have seen a rise in recent months, and the police have increased patrolling and surveillance in market areas, shopping centers, and public spaces to curb these crimes.
In a statement to the press, the Lucknow Police reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order in the city. “We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of all citizens, and we encourage the public to report any suspicious activity immediately. Cooperation between the police and the public is essential in preventing such crimes,” said DCP (South Zone) Vishal Sharma.
The police are also offering rewards for information that leads to the arrest of other individuals involved in similar crimes.
This latest arrest serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement. The swift action taken by the public in helping apprehend these criminals has not only ensured justice for the victim but also highlighted the role of collective effort in making cities safer.
As investigations continue, Lucknow Police remain confident that more stolen property will be recovered, and justice will be delivered to the victims of these crimes.
