Kota (Raj), Oct 16 Police here have busted an organised cable-theft syndicate, solved 77 cases of wire theft and arrested five people, including two scrap dealers, officials said on Friday.
The gang had targeted power lines across Kota and neighbouring Baran district, causing losses to farmers and the state electricity department.
Kota Rural Superintendent of Police Sujeet Shankar said the breakthrough followed a month-long operation by a special anti-theft cell.
Police identified and arrested Puran Bagri, Golu Bagri, Sultan Bagri, and scrap dealers Shafiq Mohammad and Zahid Mohammad.
They recovered over 1,200 kg of high-tension power cables and a car allegedly used in the crimes.
According to police, the gang surveyed files and rural power lines before stealing aluminium and other wires, which were sold to scrap dealers for Rs 100-120 per kg.
The dealers allegedly resold the stolen metal at high prices or sent it to Delhi, the SP said, adding that efforts are underway to apprehend other suspects and investigate further links.
(PTI News)
