Shopian police book two thieves under PSA

Shopian, Sep 12: Police in south Kashmir’s Shopian district have detained two men under the Public Safety Act (PSA), saying they are habitual offenders with a record of criminal activity spanning nearly a decade.

The accused were identified as Altaf Mushtaq Ganie, son of Mushtaq Ahmad Ganie, resident of Meemander; and Showkat Ahmad Wani, son of Ghulam Nabi, resident of Astan Mohalla, Arhama.
Police said a total of 12 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered against the two at Shopian police station since 2016. Ganie is named in seven cases, while Wani is accused in five. Despite repeated arrests and legal proceedings, both men allegedly continued to indulge in criminal activity after being released on bail, police said.

According to statement, the men are accused of offences including theft, burglary and intimidation, which police described as a “constant nuisance to the public.” Their persistent behaviour led authorities to declare them habitual offenders and a threat to peace and order.
After completion of legal formalities, detention orders were obtained from the District Magistrate of Shopian. Both men were taken into custody and lodged in District Jail Udhampur “to prevent them from indulging in such activities again,” the statement said.

Police said the action was part of its broader campaign against repeat offenders. “Shopian Police reiterates its commitment to safeguard the lives and property of the public and will continue firm action against habitual offenders to maintain peace and tranquility in the district,” it added.