Youth arrested for stealing vehicles

Youth arrested for stealing vehicles

A 20-year-old youth adopted a simple yet novel style to steal high-end bikes. He would approach owners willing to sell their vehicle as a potential buyer and seek a test ride, but never go back.

The Electronics City police arrested Manjunath Hegde and seized six high-end bikes, including a Royal Enfield and KTM bikes, worth Rs 12 lakh.

Hegde, a resident of Sunkadakatte, told the police that he used to check classifieds website OLX everyday and contact those interested in selling their vehicles. He contacted only those with high-end bikes. After meeting them, he would tell them he wants to test-ride the vehicle. Once he hops on to the bike, Hegde never went back. Later, he would sell it for a lesser price and go on trips to neighboring states.

The police said he had cheated people in the Hulimavu, Bannerghatta, Anekal, Parappana Agrahara and Electronics City police station limits.

To escape detection, Hegde ensured he never used the same number to contact the potential sellers. After the theft, he would switch the SIM card.

The KG Halli police arrested Hegde eight months ago. He was released on bail recently. Following a series of complaints, the police gathered information of people with a similar modus operandi. They showed photographs to one complainant, who identified Hegde. Based on the information, the police tracked him down.