Bengaluru police have cracked a major laptop theft racket that specifically targeted tech professionals in the city, arresting two individuals involved in the illegal operation. The suspects allegedly stole dozens of laptops from Paying Guest (PG) accommodations and shared housing, exploiting unsecured rooms to carry out their crimes. The raid took place in the Electronic City area, a hub for IT professionals, where the bulk of stolen devices were recovered.
During the operation, authorities seized 48 laptops valued at approximately Rs 40 lakh. Most of these devices belonged to tech workers residing in PGs and co-living spaces, highlighting the systematic nature of the thefts. The investigation revealed that the accused had been operating for several months, stealing laptops and selling them both locally in Bengaluru and across Tamil Nadu.
The case originated last month when residents of a PG in Doddathoguru reported the overnight theft of three laptops after the thieves entered through an unlocked door. As more similar incidents came to light, police traced the suspects’ operations to Tamil Nadu, arresting one individual from Kallakurichi district on December 11, with his associate apprehended later near Attibele in Bengaluru.
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Authorities explained that the suspects had deliberately targeted PGs and shared accommodations where laptops were often left unsecured. The recovered devices included both unsold and already sold laptops, allowing police to resolve 10 pending cases, nine in Electronic City and one in Bandepalya, significantly dismantling the theft network.
Bengaluru police are currently working to trace the rightful owners of the remaining devices and have urged tech professionals and PG operators to enhance security measures. Officials emphasized the importance of locking rooms and avoiding leaving electronic devices unattended to prevent further incidents.
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