Delhi’s streets are safer tonight after police smashed a ruthless auto lifting syndicate, taking three key operatives into custody and seizing 16 stolen vehicles in a meticulously planned raid. The gang had terrorized commuters and owners for months, vanishing with entire vehicles overnight.

It all unfolded when undercover officers tracked suspicious movements near a Narela scrap yard. Posing as buyers, they cornered the suspects during a transaction, leading to a dramatic chase and arrests. The trio—locals with deep roots in the underworld—admitted to over 30 thefts, focusing on easy-to-lift three-wheelers and sedans.

Forensic teams scoured the gang’s hideouts, uncovering dismantled engines, tires, and frames ready for resale. Each stolen vehicle was worth lakhs, and parts fetched premium prices in illegal markets. ‘This wasn’t amateur theft; they had mechanics on payroll and fake registration expertise,’ revealed Deputy Commissioner of Police Vikram Singh.

The operation exposed links to larger networks smuggling parts interstate. Among the recovered vehicles were several e-rickshaws popular in Delhi’s bylanes, stolen from busy hubs like Sadar Bazaar and Kashmere Gate. Police digitized chassis numbers to reunite owners swiftly.

As Delhi battles rising urban crime, this success underscores the value of intelligence-led policing. The accused face charges under IPC sections for theft and receiving stolen property, with remand sought for further probes. Authorities urge vehicle owners to verify parking spots and report suspicious activities promptly.

Community leaders hailed the bust as a victory for vigilant policing, predicting a dip in insurance claims and restoring faith in public transport safety.