New Delhi: A deeply concerning report has just surfaced regarding public safety in the national capital. According to the latest official data released by the Delhi Police, over 800 people have been reported missing in just the first 27 days of January 2026.
This sudden spike in missing person reports—averaging roughly 30 people disappearing every single day—has sparked fear and urgent questions about safety on Delhi’s streets. While the police are working hard to trace these individuals, the numbers tell a worrying story.
This article breaks down exactly what the data says, details a recent high-profile kidnapping case involving a cab driver, and explains what the authorities are doing to tackle this crisis.
The Shocking Numbers: Who is Going Missing?
The Delhi Police shared data covering January 1 to January 27, 2026. The statistics reveal a grim reality, especially for women and children.
- Total Missing: 807 people were reported missing in less than a month.
- Women & Girls: They make up the majority of these cases. Out of the total, 509 were women and girls, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the missing reports.
- Children (Minors): A total of 137 children are listed as untraced in this period.
- Teenagers: The data highlights that teenagers, particularly girls aged 12 to 18, are highly vulnerable.
While missing reports do not always equal kidnapping (some may have left voluntarily), the high number of minors and young women suggests that kidnapping and abduction gangs could be active in certain areas.
Recent Case: The Tragic Kidnapping of a Cab Driver
While statistics give us the big picture, a specific incident from this week shows the real danger on the ground.
Suraj Singh, a 25-year-old cab driver, was recently the victim of a brutal kidnapping and murder. Suraj had picked up passengers from Sector 37C who booked a ride to Chandu Budhera. However, he never returned home.
His family grew worried when his phone went unreachable. His brother tracked the cab’s GPS location to the Kapashera border area and alerted the police. Sadly, it was too late. Investigations revealed that the passengers had kidnapped Suraj inside his own vehicle, strangled him, and dumped his body in open fields in Farrukhnagar to steal the car.
Police Action: The police acted swiftly and have already arrested four suspects involved in this crime. This case serves as a grim reminder that kidnapping threats are not just limited to pedestrians but also affect gig workers and drivers.
Police Response: Operation Milap
It is not all bad news. The Delhi Police is actively fighting back through special initiatives like “Operation Milap.”
In January 2026 alone, the South-West District Police successfully traced and reunited 75 missing persons with their families. This included 28 children who had been missing or kidnapped.
How are they doing it?
- CCTV Surveillance: Police are scanning thousands of hours of footage to track movements.
- Face-Recognition Technology: Advanced software is being used to match photos of missing children with databases across India.
- Border Checking: Strict checking at Delhi-Gurugram and Delhi-Noida borders to stop kidnappers from taking victims out of the state.
Why This Matters for You
For the common man (Aam Aadmi), these numbers are a wake-up call. The rise in cases implies that safety protocols need to be tightened. Parents need to be extra vigilant about their children’s whereabouts, and working professionals—especially women returning late at night—must prioritize safe travel options.
The police have urged citizens not to panic but to stay alert. They have also reminded the public that reporting a missing person does not require waiting 24 hours; you should file a complaint immediately if you suspect foul play.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How many people went missing in Delhi in January 2026?
According to police data, 807 people were reported missing between January 1 and January 27, 2026.
Q2: Is there a 24-hour waiting rule to report a missing person in India?
No. You do not have to wait 24 hours. If you suspect someone is missing or kidnapped, approach the nearest police station immediately to file an FIR.
Q3: Are most of the missing people found?
Yes, a significant number of people are found. For example, out of the 807 missing in January, police have already traced over 235 individuals. However, over 500 remain untraced as of the latest report.
Q4: Which age group is most at risk?
Teenagers (aged 12-18) and young women are currently the most affected groups according to the latest data.
Q5: What is Operation Milap?
Operation Milap is a special drive by the Delhi Police to find missing children and adults and reunite them with their families.