Bengaluru: Police have launched a formal investigation after receiving 25 separate complaints of mobile phone thefts during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season opener at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, authorities confirmed on Monday.

The incident occurred Saturday, March 28, as a capacity crowd gathered to watch the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, face off against Sunrisers Hyderabad. While the home team secured a historic victory on the pitch, the evening turned sour for dozens of spectators who discovered their personal devices missing.

The scale of the alleged thefts gained widespread attention after a social media video flagged the issue, prompting victims to come forward.

"We have received complaints from 25 people so far regarding phones lost during the match. There is a possibility that the phones were either stolen or misplaced outside the stadium, with victims realising it only after entering the premises," a senior police officer stated.

Security Lapses Alleged

Preliminary reports suggest the thefts may have been a coordinated effort, potentially carried out during peak moments of crowd movement, such as the mid-innings break or the chaotic exit following the match. Some fans reported losing their devices while waiting in queues or at refreshment stalls.

Police officials indicated they are currently analysing CCTV footage from the stadium’s entry points and various stands to identify suspects. The investigation is also exploring whether the devices were misplaced amidst the heavy congestion outside the venue or targeted by pickpockets.

The incident has renewed concerns regarding spectator safety at the iconic stadium, which only recently received government approval to host high-capacity events following a fatal stampede during last year's victory celebrations.

Police Advisory

In light of the reports, the Bengaluru Central Division has urged fans attending future fixtures to maintain high vigilance and utilise the official Karnataka Police "E-Lost" portal to report missing property immediately.

While 25 official complaints have been filed at the Cubbon Park Police Station, authorities expect the number could rise as more attendees review their belongings.

With inputs from PTI