Social media has been flooded with alarming posts claiming that over 800 people went missing in Delhi within just 15 days. Many users questioned whether the number was exaggerated or part of online fear-mongering.
However, official data from Delhi Police confirms that the figure is real. The numbers are based on missing person reports registered between January 1 and January 15, 2026.
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Is the 800+ Missing Claim Real or Fake?
The claim of over 800 missing persons in Delhi is real and verified, not fake or misleading. Multiple reputed news organisations accessed and published official police records to confirm the data.
There is no evidence suggesting that the numbers were inflated or taken out of context. Authorities have also not issued any denial or correction regarding the reports.
What the Official Data Says
According to Delhi Police records, 807 people were reported missing in the first 15 days of 2026. This translates to an average of around 54 missing persons every single day.
Out of these cases, 235 individuals were traced, while 572 remain untraced as of the last official update. The data highlights a worrying trend rather than a sudden anomaly.
Key Statistics at a Glance
Here is a simplified breakdown of the missing persons data for January 1–15, 2026:
| Category | Number of Cases |
|---|---|
| Total missing persons | 807 |
| Women and girls | 509 |
| Men | 298 |
| Minors | 191 |
| Adults | 616 |
| Traced | 235 |
| Untraced | 572 |
Women and girls make up nearly two-thirds of all reported cases.
Missing Minors: The Most Disturbing Trend
Among the 191 minors reported missing, 146 were girls, making them the most vulnerable group. Teenagers formed the largest share, with 169 cases, out of which nearly 71% remain untraced.
Children under the age of 12 accounted for 22 cases, many of which are still unresolved. These figures underline serious safety and social concerns in the capital.
Adults Missing in Large Numbers Too
Adults accounted for 616 missing cases, with women again forming the majority. Of these, 435 adults remain untraced, according to police records.
Many of these cases involve people leaving home due to personal issues rather than criminal abduction. Still, each untraced case remains a cause for concern.
Why Are So Many People Going Missing in Delhi?
Police investigations suggest that most missing cases are runaways, not kidnappings. Emotional stress, personal relationships, and family conflicts are common triggers.
Here are the primary causes identified by investigators:
| Main Reason | Estimated Share |
|---|---|
| Romantic or emotional issues | ~35% |
| Social media and online contacts | ~30% |
| Family conflicts and restrictions | ~25% |
| Academic or social pressure | Notable |
| Mental health challenges | Contributing factor |
Role of Social Media and Online Influence
A growing number of cases begin with online interactions. Teenagers and young adults often leave home after forming connections on social media platforms.
Police say these situations can escalate quickly, especially when combined with emotional vulnerability and lack of supervision.
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Is Human Trafficking Involved?
While human trafficking does exist, police officials stress that it accounts for a much smaller portion of missing cases. Organ trafficking has not emerged as a significant pattern in recent data.
Most adults are eventually traced through hospitals, shelters, transport hubs, and community networks under initiatives like Operation Milap.
Broader Context: Not a New Problem
This is not an isolated spike. In 2025 alone, over 24,500 people were reported missing in Delhi, with more than 9,000 cases unresolved.
Over the last decade, the capital has recorded more than 2.3 lakh missing person reports, with tens of thousands still pending. The January 2026 numbers reflect an ongoing issue rather than a sudden breakdown.
Latest Updates and Police Response
As of late January 2026, no consolidated data beyond January 15 has been released. Authorities are now focusing on better use of CCTV footage, faster FIR registration, and public awareness.
Helpline numbers such as 112 (police), 1098 (childline), and 181 (women) continue to be promoted for immediate assistance.
Final Verdict: Real, Verified, and Concerning
The claim that over 800 people went missing in Delhi in early 2026 is true and backed by official data. It is not a hoax, nor a social media exaggeration.
While panic is unhelpful, awareness is crucial. The numbers highlight the need for stronger family communication, digital safety, and faster response systems to protect Delhi’s most vulnerable citizens.