Pune Police Trace and Return 171 Lost Mobile Phones; Citizens Praise Swift Action
Pune, 22nd November 2025: Pune Police have traced and returned 171 missing mobile phones to their rightful owners after a coordinated technical investigation across Zone 5, bringing relief to citizens struggling with rising cases of phone thefts and losses in crowded public areas.
Zone 5, which covers nine police stations, had received multiple complaints through the Pune Police Lost and Found portal. During analysis, officials noticed that many missing devices had become active again, now operating with new SIM cards.
Investigators then contacted the individuals using these phones and instructed them to return the devices immediately, cautioning that non-compliance could lead to criminal action. Several people, unaware that the handsets they had purchased were stolen, voluntarily handed them over after learning that possession of stolen property is a punishable offence.
Following the coordinated action, a total of 171 mobile phones were recovered and prepared for handover.
To ensure smooth distribution, Zone 5 police organised a dedicated return event at a marriage hall in Hadapsar, where complainants received their devices directly from officers.
Several beneficiaries expressed gratitude, describing the return of their phones as a meaningful intervention during a stressful time.
“We had almost given up hope. The information on the phone was priceless to us. Getting it back feels like a special gift,” one relieved citizen said.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 5) Dr. Rajkumar Shinde led the ceremony and underscored the importance of leveraging digital tools for crime detection.
“Mobile phones store personal memories, sensitive information, and essential data. Losing one causes significant distress. Pune Police is committed to protecting citizens and offering timely assistance,” DCP Shinde said.
Additional Commissioner (East Region) Manoj Patil, ACP Anuradha Udhamale, and ACP Namrata Desai were also present at the event.
