Police in Jharkhand have arrested a gang of burglars who used Google Maps to plan and execute thefts across multiple Indian states. The accused allegedly relied on the navigation app to identify wealthy neighbourhoods and plan escape routes, highlighting how everyday technology is increasingly being misused for criminal activities.
The gang, made up of three men from Bihar, carried out an inter-state crime spree spanning Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Bihar. According to police, the suspects abandoned traditional methods of scouting homes and instead used digital tools to select targets remotely.
East Singhbhum Senior Superintendent of Police Piyush Pandey said the burglars used Google Maps’ satellite images and street-view features to closely study affluent residential areas. By virtually exploring neighbourhoods on their phones, they could identify large houses, weak boundary walls, and isolated entry points without ever visiting the area in person, helping them avoid suspicion.
The gang was finally caught after a burglary in the Golmuri area of Jamshedpur on September 19. Following a complaint by a homeowner, police formed a special investigation team that used CCTV footage, mobile phone tracking, and technical intelligence to trace the suspects to Patna.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Vikas Kumar (27), Raju Kumar (49), and Mohammad Irfan (26). During the arrest, police recovered a firearm, live ammunition, stolen gold jewellery, and burglary tools, confirming their involvement in multiple theft cases.
Investigators revealed that the group followed a “hit-and-run” strategy. They would travel to a new city, use Google Maps to choose a target, commit the burglary, and quickly cross state borders to escape local police. This method allowed them to carry out at least six robberies in different cities over the past few months.
Police officials said the case highlights a growing trend of criminals using digital navigation apps and online tools to plan crimes. While apps like Google Maps are meant for convenience and travel, law enforcement agencies warn that tech-savvy criminals are exploiting them for illegal purposes.
The three accused have been sent to judicial custody as investigations continue to determine whether they were involved in other unsolved burglary cases. Police have advised residents to remain alert, improve home security, and report suspicious activity, as criminals increasingly use technology to their advantage.
