IPL 2026: Minors hired to steal mobile phones during IPL match in Bengaluru

In a major breakthrough, the Cubbon Park police have cracked a series of mobile phone theft cases reported during the IPL 2026 match held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 28. They have busted a group of minors, who were employed by a gang from outside Karnataka, to operate in and around the stadium during the match. Police have recovered 21 mobile phones worth ₹18 lakh from the gang.

According to police, several spectators who had come to watch the match reported theft of their mobile phones. Acting swiftly, the police registered a case and launched an investigation.

A key accused has been taken into custody, along with a few juveniles suspected to be involved in the crime. Police recovered 21 stolen mobile phones of various brands, collectively valued at approximately ₹18 lakh, city Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh informed mediaperson. Police are trying to track down other members of the gang who are on the run.

The preliminary investigation suggests that the accused targeted unsuspecting spectators during the high footfall event.

The police are verifying if the gang was involved in similar thefts reported earlier.

Authorities have urged people to remain vigilant during large gatherings, and to report any suspicious activity to the police.