A couple from BEML Layout in Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Bengaluru, has been arrested for allegedly stealing gold ornaments and cash belonging to their friend, who had been staying at their house since 2019. The police recovered 232 grams of gold ornaments worth approximately Rs 35 lakh from the accused.
Details of the Accused and Victim
The accused have been identified as Ganesh, 52, and Sharmila, 50. The victim, Padmaja Rao, suffers from vision problems. According to the police, Padmaja's husband left her many years ago. Subsequently, she lived with her daughter before moving in with her friend Sharmila.
How the Theft Occurred
In June 2024, Padmaja withdrew her valuables from a bank locker, which included gold ornaments weighing 570 grams and Rs 49.5 lakh in cash. She kept them in a cupboard at Sharmila's house. The trouble began when Padmaja noticed the locker key was missing. When she asked Sharmila to arrange for a locksmith, the couple began delaying the matter. Suspicious, Padmaja contacted a locksmith herself and opened the locker, only to discover that the gold ornaments and cash had disappeared.
Confrontation and Arrest
When confronted, the couple admitted to using the cash for their business needs and pawning the gold ornaments at jewellery shops. Following Padmaja's complaint on May 6, the Rajarajeshwarinagar police registered a case and arrested the couple on May 7.
This incident highlights the risks of trusting others with valuables, especially when the victim is vulnerable. The police have recovered a significant portion of the stolen property and are continuing their investigation.
