Delhi Police dismantled a sophisticated car theft gang that used advanced technology to bypass security systems and create duplicate keys, a senior official said on Wednesday.
During the operation, police recovered four stolen vehicles—Maruti Brezza, Maruti Swift Dzire, Maruti Eeco, and Maruti Alto K-10—all bearing fake number plates and altered chassis numbers.
Additionally, they seized an Autel key programming device, engine control and body control modules, lock sets, and various car theft tools, including grinders and drilling machines, according to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Nidhin Valsan.
The gang, led by Mehtab, was active across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana, stealing vehicles and selling them with modified identification numbers. Acting on a tip-off, a special police team arrested Mehtab and his accomplice Faisal in Delhi’s Narela Industrial Area on January 29.
They were caught carrying two country-made pistols and live cartridges. A subsequent raid led to the arrest of another member, Shahjaan, from Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Police had learned about the gang’s planned theft in Narela and set up a trap. Around 3 a.m., officers spotted Mehtab and Faisal scouting the area. As the duo attempted to steal a vehicle, police intercepted and apprehended them.
Investigations revealed that Mehtab had a history of 36 criminal cases in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. The gang specifically targeted parked vehicles in isolated areas, using scanners and key duplication devices to disable security features and drive off with stolen cars. The vehicles were then sent to receivers in Meerut, where their identification details were altered before resale.
Over the past few months, the gang had stolen more than 50 vehicles, selling each for ₹1–1.5 lakh. Mehtab, known for his violent nature, always carried a loaded firearm.
Following their arrests, police secured a seven-day custody remand for Mehtab and Faisal. Mehtab was an expert in key programming, while Faisal assisted in decoding keys for ₹15,000–20,000 per night. Shahjaan, a driver, was paid ₹5,000 per night for his role.
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