BNS Section 112 – Petty organised crime or organised in general
IPC Section – New Provision
Petty organised crime or organised in general
(1) Any crime that causes general feelings of insecurity among citizens relating to theft of vehicle or theft from vehicle, domestic and business theft, trick theft, cargo crime, theft (attempt to theft, theft of personal property), organised pick pocketing, snatching, theft through shoplifting or card skimming and Automated Teller Machine thefts or procuring money in unlawful manner in public transport system or illegal selling of tickets and selling of public examination question papers and such other common forms of organised crime committed by organised criminal groups or gangs, shall constitute petty organised crimes and shall include the said crimes when committed by mobile organised crime groups or gangs that create network of contacts, anchor points, and logistical support among themselves to carry out number of offences in region over a period before moving on.
(2) Whoever commits or attempts to commit any petty organised crime, under sub-section (1) shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than one year but which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.
Key Points on BNS-112: Petty Organised Crime
Definition of Petty Organised Crime
BNS-112 addresses various forms of criminal activities that contribute to public insecurity. These include:
- Vehicle theft
- Domestic and business theft
- Trick thefts
- Cargo crimes
- Organised pickpocketing
- Snatching
- Shoplifting
- Card skimming
- ATM thefts
- Unlawful procurement of money in public transport
- Illegal ticket sales
- Selling of examination question papers
Impact on Society
Petty organised crimes create a heightened sense of vulnerability among citizens, undermining trust in public safety and disrupting daily life.
Characteristics of Organised Crime
These crimes are typically carried out by organised criminal groups or gangs that establish networks for logistical support. This enables them to execute multiple offenses over time.
Connection to Larger Criminal Networks
Petty crimes can be part of broader criminal enterprises, including mobile organised crime groups, which highlights the need for coordinated law enforcement efforts.
Punishment
- Imprisonment: Individuals convicted of committing or attempting to commit any form of petty organised crime face imprisonment for a minimum of one year and a maximum of seven years.
- Fines: In addition to imprisonment, offenders may be liable for fines.
Legal Framework for Prosecution
BNS-112 provides a clear legal basis for prosecuting individuals involved in petty organised crimes. Law enforcement can take action against both individuals and organised groups.
Encouragement of Reporting
The law encourages citizens to report suspicious activities related to petty organised crimes. Community vigilance is seen as essential in combating organised crime.
Variability of Sentences
The range of imprisonment allows flexibility in sentencing, ensuring that the specifics of each case—such as the severity of the offense and the offender’s criminal history—are considered.
Focus on Gangs and Networks
The law underscores the importance of dismantling criminal gangs and networks to effectively reduce crime rates.
Public Awareness and Education
BNS-112 may promote initiatives to educate the public about petty organised crimes and the protective measures available, fostering a more informed and proactive community.
Details of the Offense
- Offense: Petty organised crime
- Punishment: Imprisonment for not less than 1 year, but which may extend to 7 years, and a fine
- Cognizable or Non-cognizable: Cognizable
- Bailable or Non-bailable: Non-bailable
- By what Court triable: Magistrate of the first class
