Delhi Police on Thursday dismissed reports of more than 500 missing women and girls from the national capital in the first 15 days of the new year as “rumours” and said there was no increase in missing persons cases compared to previous years.
A statement by Sanjay Tyagi, Joint Commissioner of Police/Public Relations Officer, Delhi Police, was shared via Delhi Police’s X account.
“We want to make it clear that there is no need to panic because of rumors circulating about missing persons, especially the disappearance of children,” it said.
In his video message, Tyagi further claimed that in 2026, there has been a decrease in missing person cases in Delhi as compared to previous years.
The news was released by the Delhi Police after PTI, citing official Delhi Police data, reported that a total of 807 people went missing in Delhi from January 1 to January 15, 2026. This means that on an average, 54 people go missing in Delhi every day. Of these, 509 were women and girls, while 298 were men. Moreover, of the total number of missing persons, 191 were minors and 616 were adults.
Although the police claimed the figures were incorrect, they did not provide any updated information on the missing persons.
The Delhi Police has claimed to follow an impartial and transparent crime reporting policy. Missing persons reports can be filed with the Delhi Police not only by visiting the local police station but also by using online platforms and the emergency response system (112).
“Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are strictly followed in all cases of missing persons. Efforts to trace the missing individual are initiated immediately, with top priority being given to cases involving children,” the statement said, according to news agency PTI.
Delhi Police has also deployed specialized missing persons units in all districts to ensure swift and targeted action. Cases related to missing persons are dealt with by the Anti-Trafficking Unit of the criminal department.
The Delhi Police urged citizens to remain calm but be vigilant and not pay attention to unverified information spread through social media. They also warned of legal action against those found to be spreading misinformation.
The public is advised to promptly report missing persons cases and share information that is factual with authorities to assist in their investigation.
