Tirupati in 2024 experienced a surge in cybercrimes, in line with the global trend. The district recorded 248 cases of cybercrimes in 2024, a significant increase from the previous year’s 173 cases. The monetary impact of these crimes was also substantial, with residents losing ₹12.89 crore to scammers in 2024, compared to ₹2.44 crore in 2023. However, only ₹2.36 crore of the stolen funds were recovered, highlighting the challenge in combating cybercrimes effectively.
Superintendent of Police L. Subbarayudu emphasized the importance of cyber-safety education for mobile phone users in light of the spike in cybercrimes. Despite the rise in cybercrimes, there was a 7% decrease in regular crimes in the district in 2024. Bodily offences decreased from 933 cases to 921, property offenses saw a marginal drop from 993 to 983, and road accidents decreased from 1,039 to 1,015. White-collar crimes also saw a decrease from 336 to 312 cases in 2024.
Mr. Subbarayudu highlighted the successful resolution of nine sensational murder cases in various police limits in Tirupati, as well as convictions in all four POCSO cases. He also lauded the establishment of a Ganja Task Force, which registered 85 cases under the NDPS Act, seized 872.3 kg of contraband, and identified 239 regular offenders through ‘ganja sheets’.
In a press conference held on December 30, 2024, Superintendent of Police (RSASTF) P. Srinivas, along with additional superintendents and a trainee IPS officer, discussed the district’s crime data from the year. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies resulted in the successful resolution of several high-profile cases and the establishment of specialized task forces to tackle specific forms of crime effectively.
The increasing complexity and frequency of cybercrimes pose a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies worldwide. In Tirupati, the rise in cybercrimes in 2024 underscores the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and public awareness campaigns to prevent individuals from falling victim to online scams and frauds. As technology continues to evolve, so too must law enforcement strategies to address emerging threats in the digital realm.
Overall, the concerted efforts of the police in Tirupati have yielded positive results in curbing traditional crimes and solving complex cases, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining law and order in the district. Going forward, continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies, community stakeholders, and technology experts will be crucial in effectively combating cybercrimes and ensuring the safety and security of residents in Tirupati and beyond.