Delhi Police Leverage AI to Unmask a Masked Snatcher and Recover a Stolen Phone

In a remarkable demonstration of how cutting-edge technology transforms crime-solving, Delhi Police successfully used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to identify a masked snatcher and recover a stolen mobile phone. The case involved the accused, Afnan Ali, whose identity had remained a mystery due to using a mask while committing the crime.

The incident occurred on November 24 near Tyre Market on Pahari Dheeraj Main Road in north Delhi. The complainant reported that an unknown person approached her from behind, snatched her mobile phone, and fled towards Gali Tyre Wali in Sadar Bazar. A case was immediately registered, and a team of investigators was formed to track down the perpetrator.

Investigators began their work by analyzing CCTV footage from the area. They followed the snatcher's route through the captured footage and found a clip showing the accused running after committing the crime. However, the investigation hit a significant hurdle: the accused wore a mask, making it impossible to identify him through conventional methods.

This is where technology played a pivotal role. The technically skilled investigative team turned to Artificial Intelligence, employing advanced techniques to remove the mask from the CCTV footage virtually. By doing so, they could extract a blurred but usable image of the accused.

"At this juncture, the technically sound team of investigators used the technique of Artificial Intelligence to virtually remove the mask from the screengrab of the CCTV footage video," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Raja Banthia. "The mask was removed with the help of AI techniques, and a clearer image of the accused was extracted."

The breakthrough image enabled the police to activate their network of secret informers and utilize technical surveillance. This led to the identification of the accused as 23-year-old Afnan Ali, a resident of Sadar Bazar. A raid was conducted at his location, and he was apprehended.

During the operation, police recovered the stolen mobile phone and seized Ali's clothes at the time of the crime. Upon interrogation, it was revealed that Ali had been released from Tihar Jail only seven days prior to the incident. Following his release, he resumed his criminal activities, culminating in the snatching case.

The success of this case highlights the increasing role of technology, especially Artificial Intelligence, in modern policing. By employing AI to remove a suspect's mask and reveal their identity virtually, Delhi Police showcased the power of innovation in solving complex crimes.

This case led to justice for the victim and demonstrated how AI can aid law enforcement agencies in overcoming significant challenges, such as masked identities, in their pursuit of justice.