Some criminal elements are using new methods to allegedly commit fraud and harass people amid the lockdown as denizens are mostly staying indoors, leading to fewer instances of break-ins, according to city police.

Several instances have come to fore where residents were allegedly harassed by unidentified persons on the pretext of seeking help. Many were also cheated by online rackets in the name of providing relief and help in the state.

A senior city police officer said, “There are reports that some youths have been doing rounds in the city claiming to be in utmost need and begging for help. But when people refuse or object to their entry in their homes, they start abusing and threatening them. In many cases, they have even allegedly spat in the residences and on the campuses threatening to spread the coronavirus.”

In a similar incident, two unidentified youths allegedly barged into a residence in the city’s Silpukhuri area and threatened the family. After receiving the complaint, city police immediately reached the spot and beefed up surveillance in the area.

City police have earlier warned of slapping criminal charges on an offender for spitting in public places. The state police have been concentrating on enforcing the lockdown and social-distancing norms.

On the other hand, many people have been reportedly getting calls from people who pose themselves as volunteers working for the state government in the 104 helpline, which has been serving the people in distress during the lockdown. The state government has also appealed to the people in distress to dial 104 and share their bank account details for receiving financial aid.

An investigation has found that these “fake” callers were asking the bank details and also the PIN numbers from the people in many cases.

State health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “Our volunteers don’t ask for any PIN number or OTP. So, I request the public not to share such information.”

Though crimes have seen a drop in rate than usual owing to the lockdown, chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal has asked the state police not to lower its guard at any cost.

Holding a review meeting of the city police action-taken during the month-long lockdown on Saturday, Sonowal also directed city police to keep a close watch on cases like theft and robbery and drug peddling, among others, at places like railway stations, bus stands and parks.