Delhi's Crime Solving Conundrum: The Struggle Against Snatching and Extortion

Despite Delhi Police's success in solving serious crimes, snatching and extortion remain among the most difficult to crack. Official data reveals an average of 15 daily snatching incidents, with lower resolution rates compared to murder and robbery. The complexities of modern extortion and jurisdictional challenges hinder investigations.

The Delhi Police have made significant strides in solving severe crimes like murder and robbery. Despite this, the capital grapples with an average of 15 snatching incidents daily, highlighting a significant challenge in addressing these and extortion cases, which remain the least solved, according to police data.

In 2025, 5,406 snatching cases were registered in Delhi, translating to nearly 15 incidents each day. The resolution rate for these crimes stands at 64.22%, a fraction less than the detection rates for murder and robbery, which saw over 95% efficiency. Extortion cases fare similarly with only 63.68% solved.

According to senior officers, extortion has grown into a multifaceted crime, often masterminded by jailed and foreign-based criminals using encrypted communications. Gangs, including the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar syndicates, exploit technology and juveniles, complicating policing efforts. Meanwhile, cross-border movements and the perception of snatching as a 'petty crime' exacerbate investigation delays.

(With inputs from agencies.)