In a proactive move to curb the sale of stolen mobile phones, retailers in Udupi district have successfully identified seven suspected stolen devices. The incident unfolded when unidentified individuals approached local mobile phone shops with the intention of selling the phones. Suspicion arose when shop owners, adhering to standard verification protocols, used the Sanchar Saathi app to check the devices. The app revealed that the phones were listed in the blacklist database, indicating they were likely stolen.
Verification and Handover
Upon being asked to produce valid ownership documents, the sellers failed to provide any proof, further heightening the retailers' suspicions. Subsequently, Vivek G Suvarna, president of the Udupi district mobile retailers’ association, along with other members, visited the Udupi Superintendent of Police (SP) and handed over the seven mobile phones. The confiscated devices included two Redmi models, two Samsung phones, one Realme, one HMD, and one iQOO model.
Police Action and Legal Procedures
The police have stated that the original owners of the devices will be traced through the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal. Once identified, the phones will be returned to their rightful owners following legal procedures. This initiative is part of a broader effort to combat mobile phone theft and ensure that stolen devices are recovered and returned.
Advisory for Mobile Shop Owners and Public
In light of this incident, police have issued a set of precautions for mobile shop owners and the general public when dealing with second-hand mobile phones:
- Use Sanchar Saathi App: Mobile phones brought for sale should first be checked using the Sanchar Saathi app to verify their status.
- Avoid Using Own SIM: Shop owners should avoid using their own SIM cards for verification; instead, they should use the SIM card of the person selling the device.
- Require Ownership Documents: Mobile phones without proper ownership documents should not be purchased or accepted under any circumstances.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Any suspicious attempts to sell mobile phones should be reported immediately to the nearest police station.
These measures are designed to prevent the circulation of stolen mobile phones and to assist law enforcement in tracking down criminals involved in theft and illegal sale of mobile devices.
