Q. What is the difference between a police officer and a private detective? Police officers are government agents who investigate crimes and maintain public order. Private detectives and investigators are hired by individuals or private companies to handle civil, corporate, and personal matters—such as infidelity checks, pre-matrimonial verification, or corporate fraud—that typically do not fall under police jurisdiction.
Q. Is it legal to hire private detectives and investigators in India? Yes, it is completely legal to hire private investigators in India for civil and personal inquiries. However, the agency must operate within the law. They cannot infringe on a person’s privacy rights through illegal means, such as wiretapping or trespassing on private property.
Q. How much does it cost to hire a private investigator? The cost varies depending on the complexity of the case. A simple background check might range from ₹25,000 to ₹40,000, while physical surveillance is usually billed on a daily basis (e.g., ₹8,000 – ₹15,000 per day). A professional agency will provide a clear quote after understanding your specific needs.
Q. Can a private investigator get Call Detail Records (CDR)? No. Obtaining Call Detail Records (CDR) without a court order or police authorization is illegal in India. Any agency promising to provide you with CDRs or WhatsApp chat logs is likely breaking the law, which could put you at significant legal risk. Ethical agencies rely on surveillance and human intelligence instead.
Q. Will my identity be kept confidential? Absolutely. Professional agencies like The Silent Watchers sign a strict Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with every client. We use secure communication channels and internal protocols (like using case codes instead of names) to ensure your identity is never revealed to the subject or any third party.
Q. How long does a typical investigation take? Timelines depend on the nature of the case. A standard background check typically takes 7 to 10 days. Surveillance cases depend entirely on the subject’s movement and routine; getting conclusive evidence can take anywhere from 3 days to several weeks.
Q. What kind of evidence will I receive? You will receive a formal, evidence-based report. This typically includes timestamped photographs, video footage, and a detailed log of facts and observations. We do not provide hearsay, rumors, or assumptions—only verifiable proof.
Q. Do private investigators have arrest powers? No, private investigators do not have the authority to arrest anyone or execute search warrants. Our role is strictly to gather information and evidence, which you can then use for legal proceedings, police complaints, or personal decision-making.
Q. Do you handle cases outside of Delhi? Yes. While we are based in Delhi, we have a network of trusted associates that allows us to handle investigations across the NCR region (Noida, Gurugram) and in major cities throughout India.
Q. What should I look for when hiring a detective agency? Always look for a verifiable physical office, proper business registration, and specific experience relevant to your case. Be