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NEW DELHI: Keep a watchful eye on your belongings while travelling in Delhi Metro . Data released by Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) shows that there has been a threefold increase in the number of pickpocketing incidents this year as compared to the same period in 2016. The sharp increase prompted CISF to not only launch a special drive last month, but it also formed a special anti-theft squad to apprehend pickpockets.

CISF data shows that of 521 pickpockets apprehended this year between January and May, 401 (77%) were women. Moreover, 148 pickpockets were nabbed with the help of alert passengers.

The anti-theft squad will comprise one sub-officer and a constable and keep an eye on the movement of suspicious individuals through electronic and manual surveillance. They will be assisted by a squad on the ground to apprehend pickpockets. The teams will be in plainclothes to blend in the crowd and nab suspicious individuals.

"The squad will conduct regular drives on different lines. Most pickpocketing incidents have been taking place at major interchange stations like Rajiv Chowk, Kashmere Gate and Central Secretariat ," said a senior CISF officer.

Other stations identified as most prone to pickpocketing include Chandni Chowk, Shahdara, HUDA City Centre, Kirti Nagar, New Delhi and Tughlakabad.

Officials said that female pickpockets work in gangs and often have babies to act as a distraction and help them blend in with the crowd. "The commuters don't suspect women, especially with small children, as much as male passengers," said a CISF officer.

On June 2, 3 and 4, CISF teams apprehended 21, 15 and 16 woman pickpockets, respectively, and recovered gold jewellery and cash from them. The accused were then handed over to Delhi Police. On May 22, a similar team apprehended a few pickpockets who had stolen 20,000 US dollars from a commuter. "We urge people to inform and report a pickpocketing incident immediately as these teams can then assist you," added an officer.



In Video: 77% of pickpockets in Delhi Metro women, CISF gets special team