Industrial units in Vadodara's prominent Makarpura-GIDC (Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation) estate are on high alert following a series of targeted burglaries. A gang of thieves has been systematically stealing valuable industrial materials, with the latest incident involving copper cables worth over Rs 1.30 lakh.
Details of the Recent Copper Cable Theft
The most recent crime occurred between December 20 and 22. According to a complaint filed at the Manjalpur police station, burglars entered the compound of a company located within the GIDC and made off with a significant quantity of copper wiring. The stolen cables were reportedly stored in the company's open compound area, making them an accessible target for the perpetrators.
A Pattern of Industrial Theft Emerges
This is not an isolated incident. Investigations reveal that the burglars targeted another company within the same industrial estate just last month. In that earlier theft, the criminals stole not only copper cables but also stainless steel plates, indicating a clear focus on high-value metal scrap and raw materials. The repeated targeting suggests the gang is familiar with the layout and operations of units in the Makarpura-GIDC.
The GIDC estate is a major industrial hub, housing hundreds of small, medium, and large companies. These firms are engaged in diverse sectors including electrical manufacturing, engineering works, packaging, and fabrication. The scale of the estate and the volume of material movement present both a challenge for security and an opportunity for thieves looking to blend in.
Police Investigation and Security Concerns
Authorities at the Manjalpur police station have registered a formal complaint and are actively investigating the burglaries. The modus operandi points to a coordinated effort by a gang that strikes during vulnerable hours, likely when security is minimal. The incidents have raised serious concerns among business owners about the security infrastructure within the industrial zone.
Industrial thefts of copper and other metals are a persistent issue due to the high resale value of these materials in the scrap market. Companies are now being urged to review their security protocols, especially for materials stored in open yards or peripheral areas of their premises. The police are expected to increase patrols and may advise the GIDC administration on collective security measures.
