Punjab Newsline | Ludhiana
In a dramatic incident in Ludhiana, an alleged mobile phone thief was caught by local residents after reportedly stealing a phone from a clothing shop on Kailash Nagar Road. While one suspect was apprehended by the public, his accomplice managed to flee the scene on a motorcycle.
According to locals, the shop owner was resting after lunch with his mobile phone charging inside the shop when two young men entered and allegedly stole the device. The shopkeeper noticed the theft and raised an alarm, prompting nearby shopkeepers and residents to chase the suspects.
One of the accused was caught by the crowd, while the other escaped. During a search, a sharp-edged weapon was allegedly recovered from the detained suspect, creating panic in the market area.
Before the arrival of the police, the crowd allegedly shaved half of the suspect's head, tied him to a pole, and hung a placard around his neck reading, "I am a thief." Videos and photos of the incident reportedly circulated locally.
Police are investigating the alleged theft and the escape of the second suspect, while the incident has also raised questions over public vigilantism and mob justice.
