Spike in snatching: 2025 records highest percentage rise in cases till April

Time of India

4 days ago

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Panchkula: Snatching cases have seen an alarming surge in 2025, with the city recording the highest percentage increase in such incidents compared to the same period over the past four years.
According to available data from Jan 1 to April 30, 2025, a total of 27 cases were reported, which is nearly 50% of the total cases recorded in 2024. This sharp rise has raised serious concerns among both the public and law enforcement agencies.
The year 2021 saw 29 snatching incidents, while 2022 witnessed a jump to 51 cases. The number increased to 61 in 2023, the highest annual tally so far. While there was a slight decline in 2024 with 54 cases, the first quarter of 2025 alone has nearly matched half of last year's total — indicating a possible year-end count that could surpass all previous records.
What's more concerning is the number of cases solved. Only 7 out of 27 cases were cracked so far in 2025, resulting in a workout rate of just 25.9%, the lowest in five years. In comparison, the workout rate stood at 72.4% in 2021, 54.9% in 2022, and slightly improved to 62.3% in 2023. But it dropped to 44.4% in 2024 and has now plunged to below 26% in 2025. The police provided the data in a reply to an RTI application.
The mid-year trajectory suggests that if the current pace continues, 2025 could become the worst year for snatching incidents in recent memory.
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However, ACP (crime) Arvind Kamboj said, "At present, there is a dip in the number of chain snatching cases. After the recent arrest of two notorious snatchers, who were involved in a number of snatchings, there are no cases being reported, barring a few small incidents." The police said the number of cases and workout rate will be better as the year progresses.
The police also claimed they have put up an increased number of nakas at different points of the city to stop snatching and to keep an eye on other miscreants.
Snatchings Leave Trauma and Fear Behind
It's not just the loss of valuables like purses or chains that victims suffer, but the lingering trauma and fear that stay with them long after the incident. The emotional scars often outlast the physical loss, leaving many hesitant to walk alone or feel safe in their own neighbourhoods.
"Even one and a half years after my chain was snatched while I was walking with my friend in the evening in Sector 24, even today I always fear the same when I go out for a walk.
Not only have I, but I have also made other friends not wear chains now. The chain was worth Rs 2.5 to Rs 3 lakh, but despite being caught on the CCTV camera, the miscreant could not be nabbed," lamented Sheela Malik (65), a resident of Sector 25.
"We have been speaking to snatching victims. Some of them even get hurt or injured when this crime takes place. Many even stop going out for a walk in neighbourhood parks due to the fear," shared Mohit Gupta, founder, Solution Box.
'Law and Order Has Failed'
Slamming the law and order situation, Hiteshi, general secretary of the Federation of Residents' Associations (FORA), Panchkula, rued, "Every time a new DCP takes over in Panchkula, it is claimed we will do this and that. But, when any crime takes place, they say we do not have enough police force. They just give lame excuses. Law and order is in very bad condition here and we do not feel safe. Patrolling is only in the name.
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Year: Snatching: work out
2021: 29; 21
2022: 51; 28
2023: 61; 38
2024: 54; 24
2025 (Till April 30): 27; 7
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