Renewable Energy Projects in Jaisalmer Face Repeated Armed Thefts
In a concerning development for India's green energy sector, solar and windmill projects worth crores of rupees, installed in the border district of Jaisalmer, have reportedly become prime targets for criminal activities. These power generation plants are experiencing massive thefts that are creating a palpable sense of fear among both security personnel and villagers stationed in the remote areas of Rajasthan.
Villagers and Security Forces Unite in Protest
Frustrated by the escalating situation, villagers and security personnel from half-a-dozen villages, including Bhopa, Dangri, and Lakhasar, took decisive action by submitting a formal memorandum to the district collector and Superintendent of Police (SP) on Saturday. The memorandum urgently demands strict and immediate action against a notorious gang of criminals that has been operating with impunity in the region.
In their detailed complaint, the villagers and security forces alleged that the gang is committing large-scale thefts at gunpoint, thereby not only causing significant financial losses but also endangering the lives of those tasked with protecting these critical infrastructure projects. The complainants revealed a staggering statistic, claiming that in the past one year alone, the gang has carried out over 100 thefts, highlighting the frequency and audacity of their operations.
Modus Operandi of the Criminal Gang
The memorandum further described the gang's sophisticated and intimidating modus operandi. It stated that the criminals operate under the cover of darkness, utilizing countless vehicles and an arsenal of weapons to carry out their raids. This nighttime strategy allows them to evade detection and maximize their loot from the solar panels, wind turbines, and associated equipment.
Villagers have directly accused 2-3 specific individuals of masterminding and running the gang. They allege that these accused criminals cleverly hide their vehicles during the day to avoid suspicion and then emerge after nightfall to create havoc. This pattern of behavior has made it challenging for authorities to track and apprehend the perpetrators, despite the repeated incidents.
Impact on Local Communities and Security
The thefts are not just a financial blow to the renewable energy projects but also pose a serious threat to local security. The border district of Jaisalmer is strategically sensitive, and such criminal activities can undermine the safety and stability of the area. The fear among security personnel and villagers is compounded by the armed nature of the thefts, which raises concerns about potential violence and escalation.
This situation underscores the vulnerabilities faced by infrastructure projects in remote regions and calls for enhanced security measures and swift law enforcement intervention to protect India's investments in renewable energy and ensure the safety of its citizens.
