Thefts on rise in Shillong

11am on July 29: Criminals steal a laptop from Tympang girls’ hostel, Laitumkhrah, Shillong

10.30am on July 26: A girl steals Rs 5,000, a digital camera valued at Rs 41,000, two cellsphones from Ave Maria Home Hostel, Laitumkhrah

July 19: Criminals steal five fans from hostel number 17 of Nehu, Mawlai, Shillong

Shillong, Aug. 6: Educational institutions and hostels in Shillong have become the targets of criminals who want to make a fast buck by stealing computers, laptops, electronic equipment and ornaments.

While the authorities admit that the trend is alarming, there has been no breakthrough by the police.

There were also several incidents of thefts reported from the Nehu campus, especially at the residences of teachers.

The North Eastern Hill University Teachers’ Association (Nehuta) recently said the rise in the incidents of thefts at the teachers’ residences was a matter of concern.

The president of the teachers’ association, S.B. Prasad, said during the last one-and-a-half months, there have been five thefts on campus. Prasad said his house was robbed last month.

“The thefts have created a sense of insecurity among campus dwellers. Thefts have also been reported from other departments, particularly computers,” he added.

Though private security guards have been deployed on campus, the problem of insecurity still persists, Prasad said, adding that the university authorities should take the matter seriously.

A senior police official said when the FIRs are filed, the police are committed to taking up the cases.

“We have made several arrests in some cases and others are being investigated,” he said, adding that the police would ensure safety and security of the citizens.