KARACHI: Police have arrested the alleged mastermind behind the mass theft of mobile phones from a farmhouse in Gadap Town, police said on Monday. The suspect, identified as Babar alias Salman, was arrested while allegedly going to sell the stolen phones, according to police.
Police said they recovered 40 mobile phones and a pistol from the suspect, Gadap City Police said. Officers said Salman had been at large after the incident and that raids were being carried out to find him. He also allegedly used a mobile SIM registered in another person’s name.
How the alleged scam unfolded at the farmhouse
Police said a job advertisement was posted on social media, and candidates were told they would be interviewed for an event. On September 30 in Gadap City, 59 girls were taken to a private farmhouse in two buses for what they were told was training. Once they arrived, they were allegedly told that recording was prohibited and that they must hand over their mobile phones.
Police said Salman collected the phones in a bag and fled the farmhouse with an accomplice, taking the devices with him. The affected girls later reached Gadap Town police station, where they reported the incident. Police then went to the farmhouse after the matter came to light.
Accomplices held as investigation continues
According to police sources, several accomplices have already been arrested. They include Waqas, who allegedly booked the farmhouse for the scam, Coordinator Nargis, and other co-accused. Police said the farmhouse manager, Waqas, and coordinator Nargis were taken into custody after the matter came to light.
Police said Babar alias Salman Sahil had planned the crime. Authorities have not yet said whether further arrests are expected.
