Over 800 People Reported Missing in Delhi Within 15 Days, Police Data Reveals

In a swift response to growing public concern, Delhi Police has refuted reports suggesting a surge in missing persons cases, calling for calm among the capital’s residents. Officials clarified that, contrary to alarming social media claims about 800 people disappearing within just 15 days of 2026, the actual statistics show no unusual pattern of disappearances.

Delhi Police PRO Sanjay Tyagi addressed the issue in a video statement released Thursday, emphasizing that the number of missing person reports in January 2026 was actually lower than during the same period last year.

“There is no need to fear or panic regarding the missing persons in Delhi, especially children,” Tyagi stated. “Compared to the past, there has been no increase in reporting missing persons in Delhi.”

The police have taken particular issue with what they describe as orchestrated fear-mongering. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Delhi Police alleged that the “hype” around the purported surge in missing persons cases was being amplified through “paid promotions” on social media platforms.

“After following a few leads, we discovered that the hype around the surge in missing girls in Delhi is being pushed through paid promotion,” the statement read. “Creating panic for monetary gains won’t be tolerated, and we’ll take strict action against such individuals.”

This firm stance reflects growing concern about misinformation campaigns that exploit public fears for financial gain or to create social unrest. Law enforcement agencies across India have increasingly had to battle not just crime but also the rapid spread of unverified information through digital channels.

The police response comes amid a backdrop of heightened sensitivity to issues of public safety in Delhi, particularly concerning vulnerable populations such as women and children. The capital has previously faced scrutiny over safety concerns, making residents particularly responsive to reports about missing persons.

Tyagi emphasized the department’s commitment to transparency, stating, “Delhi Police follows the policy of fair and transparent reporting of crime.” This approach aims to build public trust while preventing unnecessary alarm.

Authorities have also directly addressed speculation about organized criminal involvement, with Tyagi asserting, “It is being made clear that no involvement of an organised gang has come to light regarding missing children or kidnapping. We appeal to you to pay no heed to rumours in this regard.”

While addressing the broader concerns, Delhi Police highlighted ongoing efforts to locate missing individuals. The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU), which serves as the nodal agency for missing persons cases in Delhi, recently reported the successful rescue of two minor boys who had disappeared from the Mukherjee Nagar and Wazirabad areas.

Urban safety experts note that missing persons cases in metropolitan areas like Delhi typically follow predictable patterns, with most individuals either returning home voluntarily or being located within days. A significant percentage of reported cases involve teenagers who have left home temporarily due to family disputes or academic pressure.

The issue underscores the delicate balance authorities must maintain between addressing legitimate public safety concerns and preventing unnecessary panic. Social media amplification of unverified reports presents a particular challenge for law enforcement agencies trying to maintain public order while conducting their investigations.

Delhi Police has urged citizens to rely on official channels for information about public safety matters and to report suspicious behavior through established hotlines rather than spreading unverified claims online.

For residents concerned about the safety of family members, authorities recommend maintaining regular communication, being aware of routines and whereabouts, and promptly reporting genuine disappearances to the nearest police station.