CCTV cameras stolen from NEET re-exam centre:Two arrested in Mhow; motive under probe

Two CCTV cameras installed at a NEET-UG (National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test) examination centre in Mhow were stolen just two days before the exam. The cameras had been fitted at the main gate and inside an examination room in the Commerce Building. Police, however, cracked the case within 24 hours, arresting two youths and recovering the stolen equipment. Two examination centres have been set up at Bherulal Patidar Government College for the NEET exam scheduled on June 21. In light of previous paper leak controversies, the administration had installed new CCTV cameras across the campus two days earlier to strengthen security arrangements. Around 6 pm on June 19, two of these cameras were stolen. College principal Dr Praveen Ojha lodged a written complaint at Badgonda police station on Saturday morning. Given the sensitivity of the matter and its connection to NEET security, police launched an immediate investigation. A police team visited the college and examined footage from other CCTV cameras installed on the premises. The recordings captured the theft, helping officers identify and detain Himanshu Verma (19) and Vinay Sharma (20), both residents of Gavli Palasia. During questioning, the accused allegedly admitted to stealing the cameras. They told police that after the theft, they smashed the devices and dumped them in a field behind the college. Acting on their information, officers recovered both cameras. Police are now investigating the motive behind the theft, particularly as it took place just two days before the examination. Officials are probing whether the act was intended to disrupt security arrangements at the exam centre or if there was another reason behind targeting the surveillance equipment. Extra police force deployed Principal Dr. Praveen Ojha said, “Information about the camera theft was immediately given to Delhi, Bhopal and the National Testing Agency (NTA). An internal investigation is also being conducted regarding the negligence of the watchman on duty.” “New cameras have been immediately installed at the center and the arrangements have been strengthened. Jammers, metal detectors and extra police force have been deployed,” he added.