A 72-year-old man became the victim of a chain-snatching incident in Mohali’s Baltana area after two unidentified bike-borne assailants allegedly targeted him while he was returning home from a nearby dairy shop. The incident, which took place in the early morning hours, has once again raised concerns about the growing incidents of street crimes targeting senior citizens in residential localities.

According to police officials, the victim, identified as Satya Narayan Jindal, was walking back home after purchasing household essentials when the attackers struck near Gobind Vihar Colony. Preliminary investigation revealed that the elderly man had just crossed a school in the area when one of the accused approached him from behind and forcefully snatched the gold chain from his neck.

The sudden and forceful act reportedly caused the victim to lose balance and fall onto the road. Residents nearby attempted to react, but before anyone could intervene, the accused managed to flee the scene. Police said the second suspect was waiting on a white motorcycle near the colony gate, enabling both men to escape quickly after carrying out the snatching.

Investigators stated that the stolen chain weighed approximately 20 grams and was described by the victim as an old family ornament of significant personal value. Following the incident, the elderly man first informed his family members and reportedly attempted to gather information about the suspects before approaching law enforcement authorities.   

A formal complaint was later registered at the Zirakpur police station. Authorities have booked the unidentified accused under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to snatching and criminal acts carried out with common intention. Police teams have begun examining CCTV footage from nearby roads and residential areas in an effort to trace the suspects and identify the motorcycle used in the crime.

The latest case has added to mounting concerns over the rise in chain-snatching incidents across the Chandigarh-Mohali region. In recent weeks, several similar crimes involving motorcycle-borne offenders targeting pedestrians and senior citizens have been reported in adjoining areas, prompting law enforcement agencies to intensify patrolling and surveillance operations.

Police officials have advised residents, particularly elderly citizens, to remain cautious while walking alone during early morning or late evening hours. Authorities are also encouraging citizens to immediately report suspicious movements and ensure that CCTV systems in residential colonies remain operational to help curb such crimes.