Navi Mumbai : Police have reported a surge in incidents where thieves are smashing car windows to steal valuables, including cash, laptops, and jewelry. In the past week alone, three major thefts have been reported in Turbhe, Vashi railway station vicinity, and Vashi Sector 17, with losses totaling over ₹26 lakh. The modus operandi involves thieves observing parking areas, waiting for drivers to leave, and then breaking car windows to access valuables left inside. CCTV footage from these incidents shows two to three individuals working in a coordinated manner to execute the thefts swiftly.
In one notable case, a businessman parked his car in the Turbhe MIDC area and went to his office. Upon returning, he discovered that ₹8 lakh in cash had been stolen from his bag after the car window was broken. Similarly, a company official lost a laptop, office documents, and ₹3 lakh in cash near Vashi railway station. In Vashi Sector 17, a professional’s car was targeted, resulting in the theft of valuables worth ₹15 lakh, including jewelry.
Authorities suspect that a single gang may be responsible for these crimes. The Navi Mumbai Police are analyzing CCTV footage and have increased patrolling in parking zones and crowded areas. They advise citizens not to leave valuables inside parked cars and to choose parking spots equipped with surveillance cameras. In light of the upcoming Diwali festival, police have deployed special teams to enhance security in busy shopping areas and parking zones.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
