World · India Bureau
Bapatla police seize 251 mobile phones valued at ₹50 lakh
Police in Andhra Pradesh's Bapatla district have recovered 251 mobile phones in a recent operation, as part of ongoing efforts to combat phone theft and illegal trade. The seizure brings the total number of recovered devices to 1,572 this year.
LSN India ·
The Bapatla police department announced the recovery of 251 mobile phones worth ₹50.20 lakh during a coordinated enforcement drive. The seized devices, which were being trafficked through illegal channels, have been secured and are being processed by authorities.
The recovery marks a significant step in the district's broader campaign against organised phone theft and smuggling networks. Officials have indicated that such operations are part of a sustained effort to disrupt criminal rackets that target mobile devices across the region.
Superintendent of Police Bapatla has urged residents to register details of lost or stolen phones on the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal to facilitate recovery and prevent misuse. The CEIR system, maintained by the Department of Telecommunications, allows authorities to track and blacklist compromised devices.
Members of the public who have lost mobile phones are also advised to file complaints at their nearest police station with complete device information including International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers. Such documentation can significantly improve the chances of recovery and aid law enforcement investigations.
The district police have reiterated their commitment to combating mobile phone theft through coordinated surveillance and community cooperation. Residents are encouraged to report suspected stolen device sales or trafficking activities to local law enforcement.