Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Dec 13: As many as 82 cases of missing children and young adults were reported in Mumbai in just over a month, triggering widespread concern among residents and prompting alerts across family and neighbourhood WhatsApp groups in the city.
According to a report published by Midday, Mumbai Police recorded these cases between November 1 and December 6, of which 60 involved females. A data analysis carried out by the newspaper revealed that older adolescents were the most affected, with 18-year-olds accounting for more than half of the total cases — including 41 girls and 13 boys.
The report noted that girls as young as five years and boys aged 11 years were among those reported missing during the period. Area-wise data showed that police stations in Kurar Village, Vakola, Powai, Malwani and Sakinaka reported multiple cases, pointing to recurring hotspots across the city.
Authorities told the publication that every case is being thoroughly investigated and appealed to citizens to promptly share any information that could assist in tracing missing children. A police officer was quoted as saying that a large number of missing children are traced within the first few days through CCTV footage analysis, technical surveillance and on-ground enquiries, while efforts are intensified in cases involving minors.
In neighbouring Navi Mumbai, police recorded as many as 499 cases of kidnapped children between January and November this year. Of these, 458 children were traced, while 41 remain missing. Officials said that among the recovered children, most cases were linked to emotional distress and personal circumstances rather than criminal intent. As many as 128 cases were related to love affairs, while 114 involved children running away after being scolded by their parents.
Mumbai is regarded as one of India’s safest large cities. However, the 2023 National Crime Records Bureau report shows that while the city’s overall crime rate ranking improved to 17th in cases per lakh population, it continues to rank high in certain categories. Mumbai stands second in crimes against women and children, behind Delhi.
Mumbai Police operates dedicated helplines for information related to missing persons and has urged citizens to come forward with any leads that could help locate the missing children and young adults.