The city of Guwahati is struggling with an alarming shift in thefts, robberies, and petty crimes, leaving residents and authorities equally concerned. Despite some success in solving cases, the overall crime rate shows no signs of abating, with new incidents reported almost daily.
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Recent months have seen a spate of crimes ranging from house burglaries and vehicle thefts to chain snatching and armed robberies. In one instance, a jewellery shop in a busy market area was looted in broad daylight, with CCTV footage revealing a gang of thieves operating with precision and coordination. Another notable case involved a group of burglars breaking into a residential complex in the wee hours, escaping with cash and valuables worth several lakhs.
Adding to the complexity, the city police have noted the infiltration of organised gangs from outside Assam, exploiting the region's porous borders to carry out crimes. These groups often target affluent localities, commercial areas, and isolated homes, creating an atmosphere of fear among residents.
A senior police official has cautioned citizens about the various types of thefts and robberies occurring across the city. “We are dealing with a mix of professional gangs and opportunistic criminals,” he said, urging the public to remain vigilant. He also highlighted the innovative methods used by criminals, such as posing as service workers or delivery personnel to gain access to homes and establishments.
However, the official admitted that patrolling in certain areas has been inconsistent, primarily due to resource constraints and the vast jurisdiction under each police station. Late-night patrolling, in particular, has drawn criticism, with residents alleging that some officers are found in an inebriated state while on duty.
Another senior police official, speaking to GPlus, emphasised the department’s efforts to address the situation. “We have been able to solve several cases. And we are still working towards more,” he said. Despite these assurances, the public's trust in law enforcement remains tenuous, given the rising crime statistics.
While the police have taken steps to curb crime, several gaps in preventive measures have come to light. One such issue is the lack of awareness programmes for private security personnel employed in residential and commercial complexes. These guards often serve as the first line of defence but remain undertrained and unequipped to handle sophisticated criminal activities.
Additionally, citizens have pointed out that many crimes go unreported, either due to the victims’ lack of faith in the police or the tedious process involved in lodging complaints. This has further skewed crime statistics, making it difficult for authorities to gauge the full extent of the problem.
Residents across the city have expressed growing frustration with the rising crime rate and the perceived inefficiency of law enforcement. “Patrolling is almost non-existent in our area, especially during late hours,” said a resident of Beltola. Others have echoed similar sentiments, pointing to repeated instances of theft in local markets and residential lanes.
Another major concern is the ease with which criminals escape detection. “Many CCTV cameras installed in public places are either non-functional or provide poor-quality footage, making it hard to identify culprits,” said a shop owner in the Fancy Bazaar area.
In response to the criticism, the city police have ramped up certain initiatives, including instructions to install more surveillance cameras and the deployment of additional personnel in high-crime areas. However, these measures have yet to show tangible results, as the overall crime rate continues to climb.
The police have also conducted a series of raids targeting known criminal hideouts, resulting in several arrests. Yet, the influx of gangs from outside the state has made it challenging to maintain a sustained crackdown on crime.
Concerned citizens suggest a multi-pronged approach to tackle the issue effectively. This includes:
- Strengthening Patrolling: Ensuring consistent patrolling, particularly during late hours, to deter criminals and reassure citizens.
- Training Security Personnel: Conducting regular awareness and training programmes for private security guards in residential and commercial complexes.
- Upgrading Technology: Installing advanced CCTV cameras with better resolution and coverage in key areas.
- Encouraging Community Policing: Engaging local communities in crime prevention efforts through awareness campaigns and neighbourhood watch programmes.
The shift in crime in Guwahati is not just a law enforcement challenge but also a reflection of broader socio-economic issues. Unemployment, poverty, and rapid urbanisation have contributed to the rise in petty crimes, while the city’s status as a commercial hub has attracted organised gangs from other states.
While the police continue to work towards addressing these issues, the public’s cooperation and proactive measures by civic authorities are equally crucial. Without a concerted effort, the city risks becoming a haven for criminals, further eroding the quality of life for its residents.
As Guwahati grows, so too must its capacity to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. The time for action is now.
