Three Women Arrested for Targeting Elderly Bus Passengers in Theft Ring
Vellarada police have made a significant arrest in a series of thefts targeting elderly female passengers on buses in the district. Officers took three women into custody for their alleged involvement in these crimes.
Details of the Arrested Individuals
The arrested persons are Vellamma, aged 54, Papathi, aged 53, and Kavita, aged 55. Police reports indicate all three women are natives of Vasanth Nagar in Coimbatore. Authorities expressed uncertainty about whether the names and addresses provided by the accused are genuine.
Modus Operandi of the Trio
According to police investigations, the trio followed a well-practised method to carry out their thefts. They would board crowded buses and specifically target elderly women above the age of 50. The women would surround a particular passenger and steal jewellery or other valuables from their handbags.
In some instances, the accused allegedly used sharp blades to cut gold chains or open bags before escaping unnoticed. This technique allowed them to operate quickly and avoid detection during busy bus journeys.
Specific Case Leading to Arrest
Their arrests came in connection with a theft that occurred on November 3. The victim was Jayalakshmi, a 58-year-old woman from Parassala who was traveling on a bus on the Narani–Karakonam route. The stolen items included a gold chain, a purse, and a mobile phone belonging to Jayalakshmi.
Investigation Challenges and Techniques
Police traced the accused using CCTV footage collected from bus stands and nearby areas. Investigators faced several challenges during the probe. The accused often provided false addresses and showed little cooperation during questioning, making the investigation process difficult.
Another complication involved the disposal of stolen items. Police noted that stolen goods were frequently passed on immediately to accomplices. This practice made recovery challenging even when authorities caught the accused soon after the crime occurred.
Legal Proceedings
The three women were produced before court following their arrest. The court remanded them to judicial custody as the investigation continues. Police are working to verify the identities of the accused and locate any additional accomplices who may be involved in the theft ring.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about passenger safety on public transportation, particularly for elderly travelers. Authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities on buses to help prevent similar crimes in the future.
