BARAMULLA: A Maruti Alto 800 was allegedly stolen from Nowshera village in Boniyar area of Uri during the night, marking the fifth reported vehicle theft in the area, with the four vehicles stolen earlier still untraced, residents said.
The stolen vehicle, bearing registration number JK05K 6643, belongs to Zahoor Ahmad Mir, son of Wali Mohammad Mir, a resident of Nowshera.
According to the owner, the vehicle’s documents were found near Higher Secondary School, Fatehgarh, while its number plate was reportedly recovered from nearby fields. The circumstances surrounding the recovery are being investigated.
The latest incident has heightened concern among residents amid reports of other vehicle thefts in Sheeri and adjoining areas. These include an Eco van allegedly stolen from Tangpora, Sheeri, and vehicles belonging to Shabir Ahmad Sheikh, a teacher, Sareer Ahmad Check and Mohammad Ramzan Bhat.
Residents said vehicles parked outside homes and along roads were vulnerable during night hours. They urged police to intensify night patrolling, examine CCTV footage wherever available and investigate whether the reported thefts were connected.
“People park their vehicles outside their homes because they have no other option. When a vehicle disappears during the night, the owner is left facing financial loss and uncertainty,” a local resident said, calling for regular patrolling and prompt action.
Police have initiated an investigation into the latest theft. Investigators are expected to verify the recovery of the documents and number plate and establish whether any evidence links the case to other reported incidents.
Residents have also called for improved street lighting, community vigilance and CCTV cameras at vulnerable locations. They have been urged to report suspicious activity to police and avoid spreading unverified allegations.
