Ernakulam Rural police nab duo on chain snatching spree

The Ernakulam Rural police tracked down and arrested two persons who allegedly went on a chain-snatching spree across multiple police station limits on Friday (May 30, 2025).

The arrested were identified as Arif, 34, of Uttar Pradesh, and Faisal, 28, of Delhi. According to the police, the two had set out to make quick money by snatching as many chains as possible, using the heavy rain as cover. They arrived at Aluva railway station in the early hours of Friday.

The duo allegedly stole a motorcycle from the railway station and reached Companypady in Aluva, where they snatched a woman’s chain and sped off towards Chengamanad. Two chains were reportedly snatched there, after which they proceeded to Nedumbassery, where another chain was snatched and one more attempt failed.

By this time, the Ernakulam Rural police had been alerted about the chain-snatching spree, and District Police Chief (Ernakulam Rural) M. Hemalatha deployed a special team. CCTV footage was extensively examined and a hunt was launched for the accused by closing the district borders.

The police eventually intercepted the accused at Thottakkattukara near Aluva. Though they tried to flee, the police managed to detain them. The stolen items, including two fake gold chains, were reportedly found in their possession. Besides, a pepper spray, a weighing scale, and equipment meant for breaking into vehicles were recovered from their bag.

According to the police, the accused have cases against them, including for attempt to murder and chain-snatching, in Delhi. Their plan was to go on a chain-snatching spree and return the same night.

Published - May 30, 2025 08:05 pm IST