Ahmedabad Police take creative route to ensure safe Diwali

Ahmedabad | Gujarat — In a one-of-a-kind Ahmedabad Police awareness drive, officers from Karanj Police Station have launched an innovative campaign by disguising themselves as petty thieves in busy marketplaces. The goal: to educate citizens on the importance of vigilance during the festive shopping season.

Led by Police Inspector P. H. Bhati and his team, and supervised by DCP Zone 2 Bharatkumar Rathod, the initiative has caught the attention of locals for its creativity and impact. With the Diwali shopping rush flooding the streets, police are working to reduce theft and pickpocketing incidents that often spike during this time of year.

Officers pose as thieves to demonstrate real-time theft risks

During the campaign, officers are seen patrolling crowded shopping zones in both uniform and plain clothes, blending into the public while observing crowd behavior.

“We are simulating real-life theft situations to show citizens how easily such incidents can occur if they are careless with handbags, wallets, or mobile phones,” said a senior officer from the Karanj Police Station.

The team has been spotted conducting these mock exercises in bustling markets and commercial areas to drive home the message that awareness is the best protection against crime.

Public announcements and patrols enhance festive security

Along with the live demonstrations, continuous public safety announcements are being broadcast through loudspeakers in major markets. Shoppers are advised to keep valuables safe, avoid carrying large sums of cash, and remain alert in dense crowds.

DCP Bharatkumar Rathod said the initiative is part of the city police’s larger effort to ensure a “hassle-free and secure Diwali for all citizens.”

“We want people to enjoy the festival without fear. The idea is to teach through engagement rather than enforcement,” he added.

Increased patrols across key shopping areas

To further strengthen preventive measures, foot patrols have been increased in major markets such as Ratan Pol, Dhalgarwad, and Manek Chowk, which attract heavy festive footfall. Teams are also monitoring CCTV networks and coordinating with shop associations to maintain crowd control and ensure rapid response to any incident.

According to police officials, the campaign will continue throughout the festive season, reinforcing Ahmedabad’s proactive approach to public safety and community policing.