Theft of coffee and pepper: Kodagu police issue advisory to traders

The Kodagu police have issued an advisory to coffee and pepper traders to collect complete details of sellers in view of complaints of theft of the commodities from the storage locations.

In a statement, Superintendent of Kodagu district police K. Ramarajan pointed to the registration of cases at various police stations about theft of harvested coffee and pepper from storage locations during the on-going harvesting period.

Hence, as a preventive measure, instructions have been issued to the local police station officials to hold meetings with the coffee and pepper traders, provide them with appropriate guidance, and collect complete details of all the coffee and pepper traders in the district.

“All coffee and pepper traders in the district are required, at the time of purchase, to collect and maintain complete details of the sellers, including name, address, mobile number, transaction details, weight, and amount. If any suspicion arises during purchase, traders should take photographs of such individuals, verify the background of the sellers, and conduct transactions with due caution”, according to the statement.

Collecting details made mandatory

It is mandatory for coffee traders to obtain and maintain the above details. According to the statement: “If any suspicion arises during sale or purchase, the matter must be immediately reported to the local police station. If, during inspection, local police officers find that traders have failed to maintain the required records, information will be forwarded to the GST Department.”

“Further, engaging in transactions without maintaining records will be treated as intentional purchase of stolen goods at a low price, and action will be initiated against such traders under Section 317(2) & (4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Act. Offenders may face imprisonment ranging from 3 to 10 years, along with a fine, as ordered by a competent court”, the advisory stated.

Emergency helpline

If coffee and pepper growers suspect any person during sale or purchase transactions, they are requested to call the emergency helpline (112) and provide information.

Police personnel will immediately reach the spot and take appropriate action. Similarly, if any suspicious persons are noticed in public places or around residential areas, people are requested to inform the local police station or the emergency helpline 112, or share information through the KSP digital platform, and cooperate with the police.

According to the statement, the identity of persons providing information about illegal activities will be kept confidential.