Jowai, January 18 : The West Jaintia Hills District Police have intensified their operations against a surge in two-wheeler thefts across the district, resulting in the arrest of a habitual bike lifter and the recovery of several stolen vehicles.
According to a press release issued by the Superintendent of Police, West Jaintia Hills, there has been a spike in motorcycle and scooty thefts in the district and adjoining areas, with criminals targeting unattended and poorly secured two-wheelers.
On the intervening night of January 16 and 17, 2026, during a routine Naka checking at Lad Demthring, police personnel intercepted three two-wheelers — one motorcycle and two scooties — that forcibly breached the checkpointand refused to stop despite multiple signals. A chase ensued, and the vehicles were later found abandoned by the roadside, with the riders fleeing into a nearby forest.
A coordinated search operation was immediately launched, leading to the arrest of one accused, identified as Meshanki Langstang, a known habitual bike lifter. He has been taken into custody and is currently under investigation at Jowai Police Station.
Police records reveal that between January 1, 2025, and the present, the district has received 41 reports of stolen two-wheelers, of which 37 cases have been registered. Through consistent enforcement efforts, 37 stolen vehicles have been recovered and returned to their rightful owners after verification, while 19 individuals involved in these thefts have been arrested so far.
The police have urged citizens to exercise caution and take preventive measures, including parking in well-lit and authorized areas, using steering locks or GPS trackers, and avoiding isolated parking spots at night.
Residents are also encouraged to report suspicious activity or theft incidents to the nearest police station or by dialing 112.
Assuring citizens of continued vigilance, the West Jaintia Hills Police stated that all necessary preventive, legal, and operational steps are being taken to ensure safety and security in the district. Public cooperation, the police added, remains vital in maintaining law and order and curbing vehicle thefts.
