Cops Busy With Polls, Thieves Set to Strike Big

Hyderabad:  Police in the tri-city commissionerates of Hyderabad, Cyberabad and Rachakonda have been put on high alert to collect intelligence on the movements of gangs of burglars and foil their attempts to strike at houses, residents of which are away for the festive season.

According to reports, gangs are planning to take advantage of the police being occupied with election duties during the festival season and strike big.

Usually, in view of Dasara, a majority of Hyderabad residents, particularly those residing in Balanagar, Madhapur and Medchal zones of Cyberabad, Malkajgiri and LB Nagar zones of Rachakonda and also select areas under the Hyderabad commisionerate, leave to their hometowns to celebrate the festivals, leaving their houses locked.

While police would sensitise people on precautionary measures and increase surveillance to prevent offences, cops are completely focussing on the election duties. According to reports, members of some gangs have already visited the city and conducted recce of potential targets.

A senior official said that while election bandobast and related aspects remain the topmost priority, the safety of citizens was also equally important and that they are prepared to deal with such gangs.

“In view of the inputs, special teams have already been deployed in certain locations, keeping a watch on movements of new and suspicious persons. In many places, old offenders have been bound over, constant vigil is placed on some suspects and rowdy-sheeters are also regularly counselled,” he said.

Another official advised people also to be cautious of any suspicious person in their area and to report to the police immediately. “People can also install CCTV cameras to secure their premises. We also request them to not keep any valuables in locked houses; rather, deposit them in lockers. Also, fit a central locking system to the houses to prevent thefts,” the official said.