Lucknow Police Dismantles Notorious 'Lift-and-Loot' Gang Operating with Rented Thar SUV
In a significant breakthrough, the Lucknow police announced on Friday that they have successfully dismantled a highly organized criminal syndicate known for executing a series of robberies under the guise of offering lifts to unsuspecting passengers. The gang's modus operandi involved using a rented Mahindra Thar SUV, conspicuously lacking a number plate, to carry out their illicit activities across the city over recent weeks.
Modus Operandi: A Deceptive Offer Turns Violent
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Rishabh Runwal provided detailed insights into the gang's operations. The criminals would approach commuters, typically at busy intersections or transport hubs, and offer them rides at nominal fares. Once the victims were inside the vehicle, the situation would quickly escalate into violence.
The assailants would physically assault the passengers, forcibly relieving them of cash, mobile phones, and other valuables. To complete their crimes, the gang would then push the victims out at isolated, deserted locations before speeding away in the Thar SUV, leaving the traumatized individuals stranded.
Key Arrests and Recovery of Illegal Weapons
Police teams conducted a strategic operation on Friday, setting up a barricade on the service lane near the Lodhmao underpass along the Raitha–Kisan Path route. Their vigilance paid off when they intercepted the suspicious Thar SUV, which was carrying four individuals at the time.
During a thorough search of the vehicle, authorities made a critical discovery: two illegal 12-bore country-made pistols along with live cartridges. These weapons were recovered from two of the arrested suspects, Rishabh Goswami (23) and Akshay Kumar (25), highlighting the dangerous nature of the gang.
Gang Members and Initial Complaint
The police have identified and arrested seven individuals in connection with this case. The list of accused includes:
- Rishabh Goswami (23)
- Akshay Kumar (25)
- Alok (19)
- Shubham Pandey (20)
- Rishabh Pandey (travel agent)
- Gyani (20)
- Ramsafal Rawat (30)
The investigation was triggered by a formal complaint lodged on February 1 by Hriday Narayan of Kanpur. Narayan recounted a harrowing experience where, while waiting for transportation at Hadil Chauraha to return home, he accepted a lift in a black Thar SUV. The occupants agreed to drop him in Kanpur for a mere Rs 100.
However, once inside, the four men allegedly assaulted him, looted Rs 60,000 in cash and his mobile phone, and subsequently pushed him into a potato field near the ring road before making their escape. This incident served as a crucial lead for the police, ultimately culminating in the gang's bust.
Ongoing Investigations and Public Safety Implications
Authorities have confirmed that the gang was involved in multiple robbery cases in Lucknow over the past few weeks, indicating a pattern of criminal behavior that had been troubling local residents. The successful bust is expected to bring relief to the community and serve as a deterrent to similar criminal enterprises.
Police are continuing their investigations to uncover any additional crimes linked to the gang and to ensure all involved parties are held accountable. This case underscores the importance of public vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
