Delhi Police Apprehend Three Members of Notorious 'Thak-Thak' Gang in Coordinated Operations
In a significant crackdown on organized crime, the Delhi Police have arrested three individuals allegedly belonging to the infamous "thak-thak" gang in separate incidents across the capital. The arrests were made in connection with multiple cases of vehicle theft and distraction-based snatching, highlighting the gang's modus operandi of targeting unsuspecting motorists.
First Case: Arrest of Two History-Sheeters Near Pushpa Bhawan Bus Stand
In the initial operation, police apprehended two men near the Pushpa Bhawan Bus Stand in South Delhi. These individuals are suspected to be involved in at least 16 cases of theft and snatching. The accused have been identified as Rehmat Ali, aged 42, and his associate Hemant, also 42 years old.
Rehmat Ali is a known history-sheeter with a staggering 23 criminal cases registered against him, while Hemant faces charges in 16 separate cases. Both men had been released from jail earlier in 2024, only to allegedly resume their criminal activities shortly thereafter.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Anant Mittal provided details of the operation, stating that police received credible intelligence indicating the duo would arrive at the location around 10:20 PM on April 14 to sell stolen mobile phones. A carefully planned trap was laid, leading to their successful arrest.
Gang's Distinctive Modus Operandi: The 'Thak-Thak' Technique
The gang earned its nickname from its signature distraction technique. Members would approach vehicles and knock on the windows, creating a distinctive "thak-thak" sound to divert the driver's attention. While the driver was distracted, another accomplice would swiftly steal valuables from inside the vehicle.
This method has been used repeatedly across Delhi, targeting motorists in various locations, particularly in busy areas where quick getaways are possible.
Second Case: Arrest of 24-Year-Old Gang Member in Southwest Delhi
In a separate but related development, police arrested a 24-year-old member of the same gang identified as Kunal, a resident of Madangir. Kunal is implicated in eight criminal cases and was involved in a specific incident on April 12.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Amit Goel explained the circumstances of this arrest. According to the complaint, a man and his wife had stopped their vehicle near a foot overbridge after two unknown persons signaled them for help. Taking advantage of this situation, one of the accused stole a bag from the vehicle, and both fled on a scooty.
The stolen bag contained valuable items including gold jewellery, Canadian currency, Indian cash, a mobile phone, and important documents. Following a thorough investigation, Kunal was apprehended, and police successfully recovered the stolen items.
Police Efforts and Recovery of Stolen Property
The coordinated efforts by Delhi Police across different districts demonstrate a focused approach to combating organized theft rings. The recovery of stolen property in the second case provides some relief to the victims, though the incidents underscore the ongoing challenges of urban crime.
These arrests come as part of broader police initiatives to enhance public safety and reduce vehicle-related crimes in the national capital. Authorities continue to urge citizens to remain vigilant, especially when approached by strangers while in their vehicles.
