By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 18: Amid a spike in motorcycle thefts in East Khasi Hills, Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem has urged two-wheeler owners to install GPS trackers and avoid parking in unsecured public spaces.
Syiem noted that thefts are being reported almost every week, prompting the district police to intensify surveillance and checkpoints, particularly along routes leading to the Indo-Bangladesh border.
“The district police are working to control these thefts through checkpoints, as many stolen bikes are transported toward border areas to reach Bangladesh,” Syiem said. He attributed the rise in cases partly to owner negligence, citing many vehicles are left parked along roadsides.
The SP revealed that organised gangs drive the illegal trade for financial gain.
He added that increased police patrolling has forced thieves to change tactics, often hiding stolen motorcycles in forests before attempting to move them across the border. “On many occasions, Village Defence Party (VDP) members and local headmen inform the police after discovering stolen motorcycles concealed in forest areas,” he said.
While several arrests have been made, Syiem highlighted the challenge of recidivism, noting that many accused return to criminal activity after obtaining bail.
He stressed that GPS tracking devices are essential for recovery. “Many people purchase motorcycles worth several lakhs but hesitate to spend around Rs 5,000 for a GPS tracker. With a tracker installed, the vehicle’s location can be traced immediately after a theft,” Syiem said.
