Mangaluru: Incidents of theft have been steadily increasing in and around Surathkal, leaving residents anxious and fearful. Despite the installation of CCTV cameras in many neighbourhoods, burglars continue to strike with impunity, prompting urgent calls for stronger police action and improved night patrolling.
CCTV footage reveals armed burglars
Police reports indicate that masked gangs equipped with machetes, knives, iron rods, and other deadly weapons have been targeting houses and shops in the Surathkal area. CCTV footage from multiple locations has captured the burglars’ movements, revealing how they operate strategically in the dead of night.
Residents say the situation has become so alarming that many now avoid locking their homes and attending social events after dark, fearing potential break-ins. Despite police appeals to install surveillance systems, the footage has only served to underline the brazenness of the culprits.
Recent incidents reported
A major theft was reported at a shop located in Suma Tower near Surathkal Junction on October 10, where a burglar made away with ₹3.5 lakh in cash. Police investigations have traced the suspect’s movements towards Udupi, but no arrests have been made so far.
Earlier, on September 5, a series of attempted thefts occurred in the Muchur area, though the burglars failed to steal any valuables. In several of these incidents, CCTV footage has shown masked individuals armed with dangerous weapons entering homes and business establishments, sparking widespread concern among locals.
Fear grips local residents
Residents of Surathkal and neighbouring areas say that most burglaries occur at isolated homes after culprits ensure no one is inside. Locals have requested intensified night and early morning patrols, urging police to also keep a close watch on migrant workers from other states who arrive for daily-wage jobs.
“People are afraid to leave their homes unattended, even for short periods,” said one local shopkeeper. “The police presence at night is minimal, and thieves are taking advantage of it.”
Police response and staffing concerns
Residents have pointed out that a shortage of personnel at local police stations has placed additional strain on existing officers. MLA Dr Bharat Shetty of Mangaluru City North called for immediate reinforcement of manpower.
“The police department must recruit additional staff, form special night patrol teams, and provide separate vehicles and facilities to bring thefts under control,”
said Dr Shetty.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime and Traffic) K Ravishankar assured the public that investigations were progressing quickly.
“Investigation into the recent thefts in the Surathkal area is progressing swiftly. Several clues have already been obtained, and the accused will be arrested soon,”
he said.
Conclusion
The growing number of burglaries in Surathkal has become a serious law and order issue, with residents urging authorities to act before the situation worsens. Police officials have promised stricter patrolling and swift arrests, but residents say they will feel safe only when visible security measures are consistently in place.