Bengaluru's paying guest accommodations are becoming prime targets for burglars, with a notable increase in thefts of mobile phones, laptops, and cash. Recent incidents, such as the theft at CM Luxury PG where valuables worth Rs 6.5 lakh were stolen, underscore a troubling trend. Despite extensive CCTV coverage, many establishments suffer from blind spots and poor maintenance, rendering surveillance ineffective. Police reports indicate that the lack of secure access points and the presence of frequent visitors make it easy for thieves to operate undetected.
The police have recorded over 30 thefts in various localities like HSR Layout, Bellandur, and Marathahalli in just six months, with laptops being the most sought-after items. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that many PGs are home to a concentration of expensive gadgets, making them attractive targets for crime. Officers suggest that many CCTV systems are poorly maintained or non-functional, failing to cover critical entry and exit points.
Residents are being urged to enhance their personal security measures, such as locking their rooms and activating tracking features on their devices. However, the onus also lies on PG owners to implement better surveillance and access control measures. The police have advised that simply installing cameras is insufficient if they are not operational or strategically placed. The rising frequency of these crimes raises questions about the effectiveness of current security protocols within these accommodations.
