In a major breakthrough, the Anti-Auto Theft Squad of West Delhi Police has apprehended a mastermind behind the theft of half a dozen luxury cars worth ₹1.25 crore. The arrested criminal, identified as Ishtiyaq alias Sookha, has been linked to 95 cases and was a pro at using company-specific tools to break into high-end cars. This time, his capture has led to the recovery of six luxury vehicles, including popular models like Creta and Fortuner, valued between ₹20-24 lakh each.

High-Tech Tools and a Master Plan 🛠️🚘

Ishtiyaq had a well-organized operation, targeting luxury cars with precision. He and his team used company-specific tools to break locks, and he communicated with his associates through internet calling. The police team, led by Inspector Manish Chaudhary under the supervision of ASI Dashrath, cracked the case after identifying Ishtiyaq’s movements through smart monitoring tools. The criminal was finally caught at around 10:45 PM in the Seemapuri area while driving a Toyota car with a fake Uttar Pradesh number plate.

Ghaziabad Where He Made The Hub for Stolen Cars 🏠🚗

Ishtiyaq, originally from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, had set up base in Ghaziabad. The Fortuner he was trying to escape in was found to be stolen from the Naraina police station area. Upon further investigation, the police found lock-breaking tools, cutters, screwdrivers, and other specialized equipment used to break into cars. The police were also able to recover five more vehicles from various locations, including Tilak Nagar, Vikaspuri, Punjabi Bagh, Saket, and Ghaziabad.

Six Cars Recovered in Total 🚙🔑

In total, six stolen cars were recovered, thanks to Ishtiyaq’s confessions and leads. The police also seized various lock-breaking tools, dummy keys, and a mobile phone, which he used to stay in touch with his associates through internet calling.

A Veteran Criminal with 95 Cases ⚖️🕵️

DCP West, Vichitra Veer confirmed that Ishtiyaq has been involved in 95 criminal cases, including 80 related to auto theft and the remaining 15 cases involving the Arms Act, fraud, and other serious offenses. He started his criminal career in 2003, stealing music systems from cars, and since then, has escalated to stealing luxury vehicles. He would steal cars from Delhi and sell them in Meerut and Ghaziabad.