The Aluva police in Kochi have launched a major investigation following two significant burglaries that occurred in quick succession during the first week of the new year. Both incidents targeted locked houses where the residents were away, resulting in a combined loss of valuables worth over Rs 7.6 lakh.
First Theft Near Casino Theatre
The first burglary was reported from a house located on Ashan Lane near the Casino Theatre in Aluva town. The incident came to light on January 3. The homeowner was in Andhra Pradesh at the time, and a caretaker assigned to look after the property was also out of Aluva for two days.
Upon his return on Saturday, the caretaker discovered the break-in. The perpetrators had gained entry by breaking the back grill of the house. According to the police report, valuables worth approximately Rs 60,000 were stolen from the premises.
Second Heist on Old Desom Road
The second, and more substantial, burglary was reported on Sunday from a house situated on Old Desom Road in Thottakattukara. In this case, the owner and his entire family were in Australia when the theft took place.
The police filed an FIR based on the statement provided by the owner's brother-in-law. The theft is suspected to have happened sometime between 10 am on December 31 and Sunday. The burglars forced their way into the house and then broke open a locker.
They made off with a significant quantity of gold, estimated to be around 60 grams, with an approximate value of Rs 7 lakh. The stolen gold ornaments included:
- Three gold chains
- Two bangles
- Six pairs of earrings
- One anklet
Police Investigation and Response
The Aluva police have confirmed that an active investigation is underway for both cases. A key line of inquiry is to determine whether there is any connection between the two thefts, given their similar modus operandi of targeting unoccupied, locked homes.
In response to these incidents, the police have increased patrolling in the region to deter any further criminal activity. Simultaneously, efforts are focused on tracking down the accused individuals involved in these back-to-back burglaries that have raised concerns among local residents.
