17 arrested, 10 Bangladeshi nationals among bike theft racket busted in Shillong

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaSeptember 6, 2025

In a significant breakthrough, the state police has successfully dismantled an organized crime racket involved in bike theft by arresting 17 persons including 10 Bangladeshi nationals, and apprehending two minors.

The operation was initiated following a surge in bike thefts in the East Khasi Hills District, particularly in Shillong.

“A total of 17 persons has been arrested and 2 minors apprehended in the organized crime racket of bike thefts,” East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said in a statement issued on Friday.

Nine out of 19 involved in the racket are from villages – Barato, Dawki and Jowai – in West Jaintia Hills district.

On September 4, Mawryngkneng police apprehended Nehlang Lamare (24) of Barato village and Klement Timung (18) of Caroline, Jowai while attempting to flee on a stolen scooty. The scooty (ML 05 X 5909)  was later found abandoned at Main Road, Mawryngkneng.

Three bike thief receivers, Peter Pohrmen (18), Vicky Dhar (20), and Romeo Ryngksai (24), all from Dawki, were arrested by the special cell, East Khasi Hills, from Nongtalang.

According to the SP, investigation revealed that the stolen bikes were being handed over to Bangladeshi receivers.

Syiem said a joint operation between East Khasi Hills police and West Jaintia Hills police led to the arrest of 14 additional individuals, including touts and 10 Bangladeshi receivers of stolen property.

Out of 14, Deimionjongmi Paslein (25), Barister Lamare (20), one 15 year old and Last born Lamare (21) are also from Barato village.

The 10 arrested Bangladeshi receivers are Kawsar Mia (40), Ali Hussain (40), Md Rafig Miah (28), Md Jul Miah (30), Monnan Miah (38), Rumel Miah 920), Md Shabaj Miah (24), Ridial Hussan (19), Samiya Mia (25) and one 17 years old.

All are residents of Sonamganj district, Sylheti district, Tangan district and Hobiganj district of Bangladesh.  

“They are being produced before the competent court,” the SP said.