In a significant crackdown, the crime branch of the Panchkula police has successfully dismantled a dangerous gang that was systematically targeting taxi drivers in the city. The gang employed a deceptive modus operandi, using a woman to hail cabs and lead drivers to isolated spots where accomplices would rob them at knifepoint.
The Deceptive Modus Operandi Unraveled
The gang's operation was cunningly planned. A female member would first solicit a lift from unsuspecting taxi drivers. Once the taxi was underway, she would direct the driver to a secluded location. At this point, her male accomplices, who had been following the cab, would swiftly move in. They would then threaten the driver with a knife and carry out the robbery, making off with cash and valuables.
Investigation Leads to Arrests
The police action was initiated following a case registered in the Chandimandir police station area. A thorough investigation was launched, which painstakingly traced the activities of the gang. The probe revealed that the criminal group consisted of four people in total. So far, three of them have been apprehended by the authorities.
The arrested accused have been identified as:
- Ashok Kumar, a resident of Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh.
- Sunny Kumar Sachdeva, originally from Fazilka, Punjab, and currently residing in Ludhiana.
- Sandeep Kaur, who also used the aliases Mahi and Deepu. She is from Ferozepur, Punjab.
Wide-Ranging Criminal Activities and Police Action
During interrogation and investigation, the police uncovered the extensive reach of the gang's criminal activities. Police claimed that the gang committed 35 robberies in Panchkula alone. Furthermore, they were involved in an additional 15 criminal activities in the neighboring areas of Mohali and Chandigarh.
Following their arrest, the accused were produced before the local court in Panchkula. The police sought and obtained a three-day police remand for the trio. This remand will allow for further intensive interrogation to uncover the full extent of their crimes, recover stolen property, and possibly identify other accomplices.
This bust highlights the ongoing efforts of the Panchkula police to ensure public safety and curb street crimes that target vulnerable service providers like taxi drivers. The investigation into the gang's fourth member is reportedly ongoing.
