Jangpura residents protest against police apathy

NEW DELHI: Scores of residents from southeast Delhi’s posh areas protested against the recent spate of theft, snatching and drug-related incidents in the area on Sunday.

The protestors assembled outside the Jangpura Extension police post and raised slogans against the local police for their alleged “apathy”.

“In the last 15 days, nearly 100 cases of snatching, theft at houses and of items like stereos, tyres and other accessories from vehicles have taken place but the police has failed to do anything,” fumed Kapil Kakkar, president of Jangpura Extension Residents’ Welfare Association.

Mr Kakkar said lack of police patrolling in different parts of their locality has given way to drug menace, with youngsters falling prey to it.

“Youths can be seen taking drugs in the bylanes and in their vehicles without any hesitation, since police presence is negligible.

“Also, free access leads to entry of anti-social elements who involve in crimes like snatching, because there are no police barricades or patrolling,” he charged.

Last week, the residents lodged a complaint against rampant crimes in the area with the South East Delhi DCP after which police can be seen patrolling, locals said.

“Patrolling has increased now, but it should continue. Also, police should keep a check on free movement in various parts of the locality to identify and act against anti-social elements,” Mr Kakkar said.

A senior police officer said action was taken when there was a complaint of theft and snatching, and dismissed reports of police not acknowledging petty crimes. Patrolling has been intensified in the area and the police is working in coordination with local residents to keep a watch on activities of strangers, he said.