In a disturbing incident highlighting a new modus operandi, a 74-year-old man in Vadodara fell victim to a brazen chain-snatching crime perpetrated by an individual disguised as a food delivery agent. The event has sent shockwaves through the Akota locality, raising serious concerns about the safety of senior citizens living alone.
The Deceptive Afternoon Visit
The victim, identified as Hasmukh Patel, was at his residence with his wife on a late Friday afternoon. His son and daughter-in-law were travelling abroad at the time, leaving the elderly couple by themselves. The tranquility of their home was shattered when a man arrived on a scooter, wearing a helmet and a T-shirt bearing the logo of a popular food delivery platform.
According to the complaint registered at the Akota police station, the imposter approached Patel's house and asked him to come to the entry gate of the compound to collect a parcel. Patel, who had not ordered anything, expressed his confusion to the visitor. However, the man was persistent and insisted that Patel check for himself.
The Swift Snatching and Escape
Unaware of the impending danger, Hasmukh Patel approached the gate. Throughout the interaction, the suspect kept the engine of his scooter running—a detail that now points to a premeditated plan for a quick getaway. As Patel came near, the unidentified man allegedly snatched his gold chain, estimated to be worth approximately Rs 60,000, and sped away from the scene before the elderly man could react.
The helmet worn by the perpetrator proved to be a crucial tool in concealing his identity. Patel could not see the man's face clearly. In the panic of the moment, he was also unable to note the registration number of the scooter, leaving the police with limited immediate leads.
Aftermath and Community Concerns
This incident has exposed a dangerous new tactic where criminals are exploiting the ubiquitous presence of food and parcel delivery personnel to gain easy access to homes and their occupants. The Akota police have launched an investigation based on Patel's complaint. They are likely to scrutinise CCTV footage from the area and gather more details about the suspect's description.
The crime has sparked anxiety, particularly among families with elderly members living independently. It serves as a stark reminder for citizens to exercise extreme caution when dealing with unexpected deliveries or visitors, especially when they are alone at home. Verifying orders through official apps before opening gates and being wary of unsolicited visits are becoming essential safety practices in urban areas.
