The Meghalaya police have dismantled a suspected vehicle theft network involving minors and recovered two stolen scooters in West Jaintia Hills district near the Bangladesh border, officials said on Friday, April 24.

The operation was initiated following a complaint regarding the theft of a scooty from Ialong Civil Hospital in Jowai town. During the investigation, police analysed CCTV footage, which led to the identification of a suspect vehicle. An intensified patrolling operation was subsequently launched, resulting in the interception of the vehicle and the detention of five occupants, including four minors.

According to Additional Superintendent of Police (DSB) Crescency W Lyngdoh, one of the children in conflict with law revealed during questioning that the stolen scooty had been taken to Pdengshakap village.

A police team proceeded to the village, located a few kilometres from the Bangladesh border, and recovered the stolen vehicle after following due legal procedures.

In a related development, police received another complaint from a resident of Nongmensong in Shillong regarding the theft of a two-wheeler in the early hours of the same day. This vehicle was also traced to Pdengshakap village and recovered.

Both vehicles have been transported to the Phramer Traffic Cell for further legal action.

Officials stated that the involvement of minors and the recovery of the vehicles from a location close to the international border have raised concerns about a possible cross-border smuggling network for stolen two-wheelers. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain wider linkages.

Police have urged citizens to remain vigilant, ensure proper security of their vehicles, and promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or by dialling 112.