In a significant demonstration of community policing and efficiency, the Panchkula police achieved a remarkable feat in 2025 by safely reuniting 488 missing and separated persons with their families. The year-long operation, which saw a high degree of inter-departmental coordination, has been hailed as a model of proactive and sensitive law enforcement.
A Breakdown of the Reunited Individuals
The success story is underscored by detailed statistics provided by the police. Out of the total 488 individuals, a heartening 162 were children below the age of 18. This group included 40 boys and 122 girls. Further age-wise analysis reveals that 12 children were in the 0–5 years bracket, 36 were between 5–14 years, and 114 were aged between 14–18 years.
For adults, the largest group traced was in the 18–35 age category, comprising 255 people (55 men and 200 women). Additionally, the police successfully located and reunited 71 individuals above the age of 35, which included 44 men and 27 women.
Coordinated Efforts and Modern Techniques
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Srishti Gupta attributed this achievement to the seamless collaboration between various units of the force. She stated that teams from police stations and outposts worked in tandem with the cyber cell, Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs), and the specialized Durga Shakti teams active on the ground.
DCP Gupta explained that the cases presented diverse challenges. While many individuals had left home due to domestic disputes and traveled to other states via train or bus, others posed a more complex challenge. "Some missing persons were not mentally capable enough to state their name, address, or identity," she noted. In such instances, field teams employed a mix of traditional legwork and modern technology.
WhatsApp groups for coordination, local-level visits, and technical assistance were crucial tools used to confirm identities and facilitate the safe return of these vulnerable individuals to their homes.
Leadership's Commitment and Public Appeal
Panchkula Police Commissioner, ADGP Sibash Kabiraj, emphasized that the safety and return of children, women, and the elderly remain a top priority for the force. "Panchkula police will remain a ray of hope for every separated person," he affirmed, pledging continued vigilance and effort in the future.
Building on this community-centric approach, DCP Srishti Gupta made a fervent appeal to the public. She urged citizens to immediately inform the authorities by dialing the emergency number 112 or by reporting to the nearest police station or post if they encounter any missing or wandering person. This timely intervention, she stressed, is critical to reuniting individuals with their families swiftly.
The comprehensive efforts of the Panchkula police throughout 2025 stand as a testament to their dedication to public safety and welfare, turning despair into hope for hundreds of families.
