Youth turn to petty crime for easy money

J. Satyanarayana, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crimes), Detective Department, Hyderabad City. Photo: K. Ramesh Babu

J. Satyanarayana, DCP, DD.

Every year the number of chain-snatching incidents is increasing. What are the reasons behind this and who are involved in these crimes?

There are many reasons. More than professional thieves, it is youngsters, particularly students and unemployed youth, who are involved in these crimes. They need money to enjoy lavish life, to buy gadgets and for other requirements.

But why are youngsters committing these offences?

Because they need the money quickly. Ten grams of gold now costs about Rs.29,000 and after snatching chains, offenders approach gold finance companies or pawn brokers and convert gold into money. It hardly takes an hour to do this.

There is criticism that city police department has failed to control this menace?

No, it's not correct. In the last six months, nearly six kg gold was recovered and over 100 people were arrested for receiving stolen property. Though, it is tough to trace or recover gold from such offences, police has done reasonably good job.

What measures is the department taking to control these offences?

Many measures have been taken up, including installation of chain snatching warning boards in colonies and conducting awareness programmes. This apart, women police are deployed in mufti at some identified places.

And . . .

A: Police department alone cannot control this. Constables cannot be placed at each and every colony. Practically it is tough. Parents and teachers should counsel and speak to youngsters about adverse effects of crimes. They are committing these crimes out of ignorance. It should be considered as a social crime and not as a regular offence. Because once a case is registered against a youngster, his career and future will be ruined.