MAPUSA
In a swift operation, Colvale Police foiled an attempted car theft racket and arrested two men who allegedly used fake number plates to disguise stolen vehicles. The accused have been identified as Agira Ramnikbhai of Gujarat and Harpit Singh of Rajasthan.
According to police, the duo were caught red-handed while swapping number plates on two luxury SUVs along a jungle road near Madel, Tivim.
The vehicles had reportedly been rented out to tourists in Calangute and Candolim before being tampered with.
The arrests followed multiple complaints from vehicle owners about suspicious activities and missing cars. Acting on leads, a police team tracked down the SUVs and intercepted the suspects at the location.
“Both men were in the process of changing the number plates when they were apprehended,” a police official said.
Police believe the racket is part of a wider network targeting high-end rental vehicles in coastal belt areas.
“Preliminary evidence suggests that the accused were preparing the vehicles for resale or further illegal use. We are now probing their links to interstate gangs involved in vehicle theft,” the officer added.
Police have seized the two SUVs along with fake number plates and tools allegedly used in the operation.
The suspects are currently in custody and will be produced before the court.
Authorities have urged car rental operators and vehicle owners to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity.
“This case highlights the need for strict verification procedures while renting out vehicles to strangers,” the official further noted.
