Patna: In a bid to tackle growing menace of chain-snatching and theft on streets in the state capital, Patna Police has rolled out a new strategy aimed at deterring repeat offenders. Acting on the directions of Patna central range inspector general (IG) Jitendra Rana, all city superintendents of police (SPs) have been instructed to publicly parade arrested chain-snatchers and habitual offenders within their respective police station jurisdictions.The officer believes that publicly identifying habitual offenders will not only create a sense of fear among criminals, but also reinforce public confidence in the police force’s commitment to maintaining law and order.Speaking about the initiative, the IG said, “We have reviewed all the recent incidents of chain-snatching reported across Patna. Based on that assessment, all SPs have been directed to strengthen patrolling in vulnerable locations where such crimes have taken place. Besides regular patrolling, police personnel in civvies will also be deployed at these places to keep a close watch on criminal activity.”The move comes amid a steady rise in incidents of chain-snatching and mobile phone theft, particularly by motorcycle-borne criminals who often target women, senior citizens, and pedestrians.Officials said many accused involved in chain-snatching and robbery return to criminal activities soon after securing bail. By parading such offenders, the police intend to send a clear message that repeat crimes will be dealt with firmly under a zero-tolerance approach.In addition to the public parades, all police stations have been directed to intensify operations against gangs involved in chain snatching and similar offences. Special drives will be conducted to identify and arrest habitual offenders operating across different parts of the city.Patrolling has also been strengthened in areas that frequently witness such crimes. Additional police personnel and motorcycle patrol units are being deployed in busy marketplaces, crowded roads, morning and evening walking routes, religious places, and other locations where women and elderly citizens are particularly vulnerable.Police are also relying heavily on technology to improve detection and arrests. CCTV footage, technical surveillance, and other digital tools are being used to quickly identify suspects and monitor movement of criminals.Officials said the anti-snatching campaign will continue in the coming weeks with regular verification of frequent offenders, surveillance of suspicious individuals, systematic review of CCTV recordings, and increased police visibility in sensitive locations.According to the police, the objective is not limited to arresting criminals. The larger goal is to significantly reduce incidents of chain-snatching and robbery while ensuring that residents of Patna feel safer in their daily lives.
