Gangtok Schoolgirl ‘Kidnapping’ Case Turns Hoax; Missing Minor Traced in Siliguri

A suspected kidnapping case involving a 14-year-old schoolgirl took a dramatic turn after police confirmed that the incident was a self-staged hoax. The minor, who had been reported missing on March 13, was traced safely in Siliguri on Tuesday evening.

The case initially triggered panic after the girl failed to return home from school, prompting her family to lodge a First Information Report (FIR) at Sadar Police Station. The situation escalated when the family reportedly received a ransom demand of ₹3 lakh from an unknown caller using the girl’s mobile phone, along with threats to her life.

Taking the matter seriously, Sadar Police registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Justice Code and launched an intensive search operation. A police team was immediately dispatched to Siliguri to conduct field verification and track leads.

Through sustained efforts and coordinated action, the missing girl was located in the SNT area of Siliguri, where she was found loitering. Police officials confirmed that she was safe and unharmed.

During preliminary inquiry, investigators uncovered that the girl had deliberately staged her own disappearance. She allegedly attempted to extort money from her parents by posing as a kidnapper. Using WhatsApp, she sent ransom messages demanding ₹3 lakh and even recorded voice notes mimicking distress to make the claim appear genuine.

Police sources stated that the girl has been secured and is being brought back to Gangtok for further legal procedures and detailed questioning. Authorities are now examining the circumstances that led to the incident and considering appropriate action.

The case highlights the seriousness of false alarm incidents, which can divert critical police resources and create unnecessary panic among the public.