Duplicate Keys Fuel Two-Wheeler Theft Cases

Nagpur: A sharp rise in two-wheeler thefts has gripped the city, with the easy availability of duplicate keys enabling thieves to operate with alarming ease. According to police records, 580 vehicle theft cases were reported between January and April 2024, involving around 640 stolen vehicles — the majority of them two-wheelers. So far, only 140 of the stolen vehicles have been recovered.

The Nagpur Police Crime Branch has made some progress, solving 113 cases and arresting 52 suspects. However, the continued availability of duplicate keys from roadside key makers remains a major challenge. "The easy availability of duplicate keys is a key factor driving this surge. Citizens must take responsibility for their vehicle's safety," said ACP (Crime) Abhijit Patil.

"Riders must avoid parking vehicles at random locations. Using designated parking spaces, installing high-quality locks, and securing the wheels are critical measures to protect two-wheelers," he said.

Police revealed that many of the thieves are coming from nearby districts such as Bhandara, Amravati, and Wardha. "These criminals steal bikes in Nagpur and transport them back to their districts," Patil said. The stolen vehicles are then sold at throwaway prices in rural areas or smaller towns, often without proper documentation or using forged papers, making them difficult to trace.