While notable progress has been made in solving high-profile cases and tackling cybercrime, challenges like crimes against women and children, narcotics, and vehicle thefts require sustained efforts
GUWAHATI: As Guwahati strides into 2025, the Police Commissionerate's crime report for the past year reveals a complex picture of progress, challenges, and unresolved issues. The report sheds light on various facets of crime, including property offences, crimes against women and children, drug-related cases, and advancements in cybercrime investigations.
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Property offences, including theft, burglary, robbery, and dacoity, remain a significant concern. In 2024, the total value of stolen property was reported at an alarming Rs. 19.68 crore. However, police efforts resulted in a recovery rate of 56.55%, amounting to Rs. 11.12 crore.
Among the recovered items were 3,370 mobile phones, 390 vehicles, and gold ornaments valued at approximately Rs. 10 lakh. Despite these achievements, the recovery rate indicates room for improvement.
The report highlights a steady pattern in vehicle thefts over the past five years. In 2024, 1,118 vehicles were reported stolen, with only 390 recovered. Two-wheelers comprised the majority of thefts, followed by light motor vehicles and heavy motor vehicles. Arrests in connection with vehicle thefts increased marginally, from 141 in 2021 to 168 in 2024.
Crimes against women and children continue to pose serious concerns. In 2024, there were 463 reported cases of crimes against children, while crimes against women, including domestic violence and sexual assault, accounted for 2,152 cases.
High-profile cases like the kidnapping and murder of Nitish Kumar, a 10th standard student, and the sensational Noonmati double murder involving a mother and son underscore the grim reality of such offences. Investigations in these cases were thorough, with all accused arrested and charge sheets filed.
Under the NDPS Act, Guwahati Police made significant seizures in 2024, including 14.7 kg of heroin, 280.86 grams of brown sugar, and over 331 kg of ganja. Arrests under the Act increased to 529, reflecting a crackdown on drug-related offences.
Despite these efforts, the sheer volume of drugs seized indicates an ongoing battle against the narcotics trade. Methamphetamine tablets, cough syrups, and opium remain prevalent, with traffickers adopting increasingly sophisticated methods.
Cybercrime in Guwahati has seen a marked rise, with the Cyber Police Station at Panbazar registering 29 cases in 2024. Financial fraud dominated the landscape, with 821 complaints leading to a recovery of Rs. 3.75 crore.
Efforts to tackle cyber threats included deactivating 268 fake or hacked social media accounts and 94 WhatsApp accounts. Public awareness initiatives, combined with technology-driven investigations, have enhanced the police's ability to counter cyber threats.
Several high-profile cases in 2024 showcased the Guwahati Police's commitment to justice:
1. Land Document Scam: A racket involving government officials and land mafias was busted, leading to 118 cases registered and 165 arrests. This action prompted changes in property registration policies.
2. Radisson Blu Murder: An investigation led to the arrest of suspects from West Bengal in the murder of a hotel guest.
3. Call Centre Scam: An international cybercrime network was dismantled, with 57 arrests in a case involving impersonation and financial fraud.
Despite these achievements, public concerns about safety and policing persist. Many residents cite delays in police response, lack of coordination, and inconsistent communication.
The conviction rate in 2024 stood at 26.08%, a modest improvement over previous years. However, experts believe this is far from satisfactory, with many cases still pending trial.
The Guwahati Police Commissionerate's 2024 crime report offers a nuanced view of the city’s law and order situation. While notable progress has been made in solving high-profile cases and tackling cybercrime, challenges like crimes against women and children, narcotics, and vehicle thefts require sustained efforts.
