Bengaluru PGs become easy targets as laptop thefts surge

Paying guest (PG) accommodations across Bengaluru are witnessing a worrying rise in burglaries, with thieves targeting laptops, mobile phones and cash despite the widespread presence of CCTV cameras.

Police say areas such as HSR Layout, Bellandur, Marathahalli, Electronics City, Mahadevapura and Whitefield have reported multiple theft cases in recent months, affecting students and IT professionals who rely on shared accommodation.

IT professional loses MacBook worth ₹3.5 lakh

One of the latest incidents occurred on June 9 at a PG in HSR Layout, where burglars allegedly entered the premises and escaped with laptops, mobile phones and cash.

Among the victims was IT professional Nandish D, who reportedly lost a MacBook valued at ₹3.5 lakh. His roommates also lost electronic devices. According to him, the total value of the stolen property was around ₹6.5 lakh.

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation.

Why PGs have become attractive targets

According to police officials, PG accommodations house a large number of expensive gadgets in a relatively small area, making them lucrative targets for criminals.

A single floor can contain dozens of laptops, smartphones and other electronic devices worth several lakh rupees. Many thefts have occurred during the early morning hours when residents were asleep.

Investigators say burglars often gain access through unlocked gates, staircases or terrace entrances before quickly fleeing with valuables.

CCTV alone not enough

Despite surveillance systems being installed in most PGs, police say many cameras are poorly maintained, have blind spots or fail to cover critical entry and exit points.

Offenders frequently use masks, helmets or caps to conceal their identities, making identification difficult even when captured on camera.

Authorities have also not ruled out the possibility of insider involvement in some cases. In HSR Layout, police noted that a recent burglary was the second reported at the same PG.

Police urge stronger security measures

Police records indicate more than seven theft cases in HSR Layout, 12 in Whitefield, over six in Marathahalli, eight in Bellandur and five in Electronics City over recent months.

Officials have advised PG owners to strengthen access controls, maintain visitor records and improve surveillance coverage. Residents have been urged to lock rooms, secure valuables and enable tracking features on electronic devices.