Bhawanipatna, May 21: Kalahandi police have achieved a major breakthrough by busting an interstate-style bike theft racket operating across the district. Police seized 44 stolen motorcycles and arrested six persons involved in the illegal operation.
According to the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Kalahandi, the accused are residents of the Junagarh and Bhawanipatna areas.
Police said multiple complaints regarding motorcycle thefts had been reported at various police stations in recent months. The gang allegedly targeted bikes parked in market complexes, outside homes, and near offices before fleeing with the vehicles.
During the investigation, police identified Suraj Kaibarta, Pawan Kaibarta, and Alok Barik as the key members involved in stealing motorcycles from different parts of the district. The stolen bikes were then reportedly handed over to Akash Kaibarta, Chand Naik, and Sameer Durga.
Investigators revealed that the accused used duplicate registration number plates and changed the colour of the stolen motorcycles to avoid detection. The modified bikes were later sold to unsuspecting buyers at cheaper prices.
The crackdown began after a bike theft case was registered at Junagarh Police Station on the 13th of last month. Taking the matter seriously, the district police formed a special investigation team to trace the gang.
Police finally cracked the case after detaining one suspect from Junagarh. During interrogation, crucial information led officers to the remaining members of the gang, resulting in all six arrests and the recovery of 44 stolen motorcycles.
