Bengaluru: In a major breakthrough, Bengaluru police have busted an organised interstate mobile theft racket that allegedly deployed trained minors to target spectators during an Indian Premier League 2026 match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The thefts were reported on March 28 during the match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad, when several spectators complained of missing mobile phones.
According to police, the gang operated with a high level of planning and coordination. Minors were allegedly brought to Bengaluru from different states, including Jharkhand and Bihar, specifically to carry out thefts during the high-profile match.
Investigators revealed that the juveniles were systematically trained in pickpocketing techniques and evasion strategies. They were also coached on how to behave if caught, including what to say during questioning and while appearing before the Juvenile Justice Board.
Police believe the use of minors was a deliberate tactic to avoid suspicion and minimise legal consequences.
13 detained, including four adults
A total of 13 individuals have been detained in connection with the case, including four adults and nine minors. The adult accused have been identified as Shubham Kumar, Eshal Kumar (23), Sanjeeth Kumar (24) and Sohan Kumar.
They have been produced before a court and remanded to police custody for further investigation.
The nine minors have been presented before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to government observation homes as per legal procedures.
Stolen tickets and coordinated operation
Police said the gang even resorted to stealing match tickets to gain entry into the stadium and access crowded areas where spectators were most vulnerable.
Once inside, the minors allegedly targeted individuals in packed stands, taking advantage of distractions during the match.
Authorities recovered a total of 75 mobile phones, including 70 stolen devices and five phones used by the accused to coordinate their activities.
Probe into wider interstate network
Investigators suspect that the group is part of a larger interstate network involved in organised thefts across multiple cities.
Efforts are currently underway to identify additional members and examine whether similar incidents at other large public gatherings are linked to the same network.
Police officials said further arrests are likely as the investigation progresses.
Conclusion
The bust highlights the growing sophistication of organised theft networks and raises concerns over the use of minors in criminal activities. With large public events continuing to attract massive crowds, authorities are expected to strengthen surveillance and security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.