Delhi Police IGI units arrests 540 touts in 2024
Touting at IGI Airport involves coercing, misguiding, or enticing passengers to use unauthorized services such as taxis, accommodation, or shopping : DCP Usha Rangnani
New Delhi, December 11
In a determined effort to eradicate touting activities at IGI Airport, Delhi Police's IGI Airport Unit has launched an extensive and strategic crackdown, resulting in an unprecedented impact on passenger safety and airport operations.
The IGI unit of Delhi Police arrested 540 touts and seized 254 vehicles in 2024, compared to 264 arrests and 96 vehicle seizures.
DCP (IGI) Usha Rangnani said that touting at IGI Airport involves coercing, misguiding, or enticing passengers to use unauthorized services such as taxis, accommodation, or shopping. This practice not only tarnishes the reputation of the airport and the nation but also compromises passenger safety.
Touts often prey on unsuspecting passengers, particularly at night, posing as pre-paid taxi drivers and offering false promises of cheaper services. These deceptive practices leave passengers vulnerable to harassment, financial exploitation, and safety risks, she added.
Touting at IGI Airport is prohibited and is considered an offence under the Delhi Prevention of Touting & Malpractices against Tourist Act
Major Success Stories: Swift Action Saves Victims
Foreign National Duped for Rs. 98,700
In September 2024, a foreign passenger, arriving late at night, was approached by a tout posing as a helpful local. The tout falsely informed the passenger that Delhi was witnessing heavy protests, causing all hotels and public transport to shut down. Manipulating the passenger’s concerns, the tout and his associates lured him into their trap with promises of alternate arrangements.
The passenger was taken to multiple locations, where his credit card was charged Rs. 98,700 under the guise of arranging a private vehicle to Varanasi. Ultimately, he was abandoned on the roadside.
Acting swiftly, the IGI Airport Police registered the complaint and launched a coordinated operation. Within 24 hours, the police apprehended four accused persons, including the mastermind Amit Malhotra. Further, they froze the suspects’ bank accounts, ensuring the recovery of the victim’s hard-earned money. This case not only highlights the deceptive tactics used by touts but also the efficiency and commitment of the police in protecting passengers.
Fivefold Overcharging by Touts
Another incident, also reported in September 2024, involved a foreign national, who was visiting Delhi for the first time. He was targeted by touts at IGI Airport and charged Rs. 2,500 for a taxi ride from the airport to CR Park—a fare almost five times the standard rate.
The victim's friend lodged a complaint, prompting immediate action by the IGI Airport Police. After analyzing CCTV footage and conducting on-ground inquiries, the police tracked down and arrested the two accused touts, Monu Bhati and Kamal, within a few hours. Their swift action not only brought justice to the victim but also sent a strong message to those engaging in such unlawful practices.
Targeting Vulnerable Passengers
In another instance earlier this year, a group of touts used fraudulent means to extort money from a solo female traveler by misguiding her about hotel closures. The touts attempted to coerce her into availing their "premium" services. Upon receiving her complaint, the IGI Airport Police acted decisively, arresting the offenders and ensuring her safety.
Comprehensive Action Plan to Combat Touting
Innovative Strategies Implemented:
1. Round-the-Clock Anti-Touting Teams:
o Specialized teams, including personnel in plain clothes and uniform, are deployed 24/7 across terminals, arrival areas, and parking zones. Their visible and discreet presence ensures immediate action against touting.
2. Enhanced Patrolling (Foot & Motorcycle):
o Foot patrols navigate crowded spaces effectively, ensuring personal interaction with passengers.
o Motorcycle patrols enable officers to access remote or traffic-congested areas quickly, ensuring swift responses.
3. Joint Operations with Key Stakeholders:
Collaborations with RAXA (Airport Security Group) and DIAL (Delhi International Airport Limited)have strengthened intelligence-sharing and operational coordination.
Joint checks with traffic police in forecourt areas address touting and traffic violations simultaneously.
4. Intelligence-Driven Actions:
Intelligence gathered through surveillance and public feedback under the "Eyes and Ears" scheme has enabled targeted raids, reducing touts' ability to operate freely.
5. Preventive Measures for Repeat Offenders:
Strict legal action and continuous monitoring ensure habitual offenders are unable to return to illegal activities.
6. Deployment of Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs):
Stationed at strategic locations, QRTs ensure swift and effective responses to suspicious activities, creating a deterrent effect.
Impactful Results: A Drastic Decline in Touting
Arrested touts belong to multiple states, highlighting the widespread nature of this issue:
• Delhi: 373
• Uttar Pradesh: 107
• Haryana: 32
• Bihar: 11
• Others: Rajasthan, Punjab, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim.
Awareness Campaigns & Passenger Sensitization
To complement enforcement, the IGI Airport Police regularly conducts awareness campaigns to educate passengers about touting risks and precautions. These efforts ensure passengers remain informed and vigilant, deterring touts from exploiting them.
DCP Rangani added that through innovative strategies, dedicated personnel, and strong partnerships, the IGI Airport Unit continues to set a benchmark for proactive policing, ensuring IGI Airport remains a safe, secure, and welcoming hub for travelers worldwide.
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