The investigation began on 13 December 2025, when victim Ajay Singh filed a complaint at Bhilai Nagar Police Station, reporting the theft of his motorcycle. Singh said he had parked his bike near the Government Hospital while visiting the Ruabanda weekly market. Upon returning, he discovered the vehicle missing, prompting police to register a case and launch a probe.
Acting on credible intelligence, police traced Banwali Kolthia, a former employee of a cement shop in Sector-10, Bhilai, currently working as a security guard in the Risali area’s Maitri Kunj, who was allegedly seeking buyers for stolen bikes. During interrogation, Kolthia admitted to collaborating with Pradeep Bag alias Raju and Dilip in vehicle thefts. Pradeep was subsequently arrested.
According to police, the suspects stole motorcycles in Odisha and sold them in Bhilai, while bikes stolen in Bhilai were transported back to Odisha for sale. Stolen vehicles were concealed in bushes near the Civic Center and in a derelict structure close to the LIC office in Sector-6. Following the suspects’ guidance, police recovered four stolen motorcycles from these locations.
The arrests have led to the resolution of four separate cases—one each in Bhilai Nagar and Nevai, and two in Odisha. Both accused are habitual offenders with prior jail records, and the police have confirmed that legal action is underway under relevant sections of the law.
Senior police officials emphasized the importance of inter-state coordination in tackling organized theft networks. “Such operations show that systematic intelligence gathering and timely action can break entrenched criminal networks,” a spokesperson said.
The police have also urged citizens to remain vigilant, secure their vehicles, and report suspicious activity immediately. Authorities warned that further investigations are ongoing, and more members of the interstate bike theft gang may be identified and apprehended.
This case highlights the increasing sophistication of criminal networks in the region, exploiting gaps between state jurisdictions, and underscores the need for enhanced surveillance and community cooperation.
