Two years ago, it would be unheard of to walk into any public place including supermarkets in Bengaluru without wearing a face mask. Today, things have taken an unexpected turn as supermarkets in Bengaluru have prohibited customers from wearing masks. Read on to know why Bengalureans must not wear face masks while going grocery shopping in the city.
Bengaluru Supermarkets Ban Face Masks
As per a report by The Indian Express, supermarket chains in Bengaluru are banning customers from wearing face masks. This policy shift has come due to an increase in thefts in supermarkets which has a link to customers concealing their identities behind masks. An employee at a supermarket chain in Kengeri told The Indian Express that their stores had undergone substantial losses due to thefts.
Two supermarkets in Kengeri reported stolen foods valued at ₹3 lakh. One location itself reported a loss of up to ₹1.2 lakh. On checking the CCTV footage, the supermarket’s management decided to ban masks. As per the employee, the thieves hide the stolen items in personal bags or under their clothes.
Reason For New Policy: Increase In Thefts
The modus operandi includes purchasing inexpensive items at the counter to avoid suspicion. Meanwhile, concealing their faces under face masks, they hide expensive products in their bags or under their clothing. Smaller supermarkets lack security and don’t have a policy of keeping bags outside. This makes the supermarkets more susceptible to theft.
Speaking to TNIE, the employee explains that the stolen goods amount between ₹1,000 and ₹2,000. He adds that thieves often operate in groups and keep returning to the same location. However, involving the police is futile as the value of the stolen items is not substantial. Not just the supermarket management, with perpetrators hiding behind masks, they’ve been able to conceal their identity from the police as well. Masks pose a challenge to the police as well.
Also Read: 8 New Restaurants In Bengaluru To Head To This Month
Meanwhile, Bengalureans, now keep your face masks away on your next grocery shopping trip in the city.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro (pictures used for representation)
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.