Police have solved a chain-snatching case involving a 70-year-old woman in Bhilai within hours of the crime, arresting an unusual accused duo—a mother and her son—who allegedly executed the robbery by deceiving the victim during her morning walk.

The incident took place on the morning of July 31 in the Bhilai Bhatti police station area, where the accused allegedly diverted the elderly woman's attention before fleeing with her gold chain worth around ₹2.5 lakh.

Elderly Woman Targeted During Morning Walk

According to police, Uma Devi, a resident of Sector-1, Road No. 2, had stepped out for her regular morning walk at around 6:10 am when a man and a woman arrived on a motorcycle.

The woman reportedly approached Uma Devi and requested her assistance in plucking flowers with the help of a stick. As the elderly woman became engaged in the conversation, the accused allegedly snatched the nearly 20-gram gold chain from around her neck before escaping on the motorcycle with her accomplice.

The victim immediately reported the incident to Bhilai Bhatti Police Station, following which a case was registered and an investigation was launched.

CCTV Footage, Technical Evidence Lead to Arrest

Police teams examined CCTV footage from the surrounding area and gathered technical evidence while simultaneously relying on information provided by local informants.

The investigation led officers to G. Gautam (20) and his mother J. Parvati (48), residents of Shantipara, Camp-1. During questioning, both allegedly confessed to their involvement in the crime.

Police said the accused are related as mother and son and had jointly planned the chain-snatching before carrying it out.

Recovery of Stolen Property Underway

Investigators said efforts are underway to recover the stolen gold chain and the motorcycle used during the offence. Police are also examining whether the duo had been involved in similar chain-snatching incidents reported in Bhilai in recent weeks.

Authorities noted that several cases targeting women and senior citizens during morning walks have been reported in the city, prompting increased surveillance in vulnerable areas.

Police Issue Advisory

Following the incident, police have urged residents, particularly senior citizens and women, to remain vigilant while walking alone during early morning or evening hours. They have advised people to avoid wearing heavy jewellery in isolated areas and to report suspicious persons or vehicles immediately.

The investigation is continuing.