Chain snatchers strike again in Bengaluru as gold prices soar
Bengaluru : As gold prices continue to climb sharply, incidents of chain snatching are once again on the rise in Bengaluru, triggering concern among residents. Armed with motorcycles and helmets to conceal their identities, miscreants are targeting women walking alone and fleeing with gold mangalsutra chains in a matter of seconds.
The latest incident was reported within the limits of the Bagalagunte Police Station. The victim, identified as Indravathi, a resident near Video Stop, was returning from a nearby grocery store around 8.30 pm when the crime occurred.
According to police, two unidentified men on a motorcycle initially rode past her, seemingly surveying the surroundings. After ensuring the road was relatively deserted, they turned back, approached her from behind and forcibly snatched her 50-gram mangalsutra chain before speeding away.
The entire episode was captured on a nearby CCTV camera. However, investigators said identifying the accused has proven difficult as both men were wearing helmets. “They suddenly grabbed the chain. Before I could even realise what was happening, they snatched it and fled at high speed,” Indravathi reportedly told police.
Though she screamed for help, the accused disappeared within moments, leaving locals alarmed. Residents have expressed anger over the resurgence of such crimes, particularly at a time when soaring gold prices make women wearing jewellery easy targets.
Police have registered a case and launched an investigation based on CCTV footage. Officers suspect that habitual offenders may have become active again amid the surge in gold rates. Authorities have urged women to remain cautious while walking alone at night and to avoid displaying expensive jewellery in public.
