Bengaluru Photographer Arrested for Stealing Gold Worth Rs 55 Lakh Using Spare Key
In a startling incident in Bengaluru, a 42-year-old freelance photographer has been arrested for allegedly stealing gold ornaments valued at approximately Rs 55 lakh from a software engineer's residence. The theft was executed by exploiting a spare key that had been carelessly left in a shoe rack outside the house, highlighting significant security lapses.
Details of the Theft and Arrest
The accused, identified as Kiran, a resident of Varthur Kodi, had previously operated a photo studio that closed due to financial difficulties. He later transitioned to working as an event photographer. According to police reports, the software engineer, residing in Nagondanahalli, left his home on February 11 after locking the door. However, he placed a spare key in the shoe rack for his children, who were expected to return from school later in the day.
Upon returning in the evening, the engineer was shocked to find the door wide open and discovered that 348 grams of gold ornaments were missing from a cupboard. The theft prompted an immediate investigation by local authorities.
Investigation and Recovery of Stolen Items
Police officials swiftly reviewed CCTV footage from the area, which led them to trace Kiran near Varthur Kodi. He was apprehended on February 13 and subsequently confessed to the crime. During interrogation, Kiran admitted that he had noticed the spare key in the shoe rack while scouting for a house in the building, seizing the opportunity to commit the theft.
Following his arrest, a search of Kiran's residence resulted in the recovery of all the stolen jewellery. The police have confirmed that the recovered items match the description provided by the victim, ensuring their return.
Police Warning on Home Security
In response to this incident, Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh issued a stern warning to residents. He emphasized the dangers of leaving house keys in easily accessible locations such as shoe racks, flowerpots, or common passages. Such practices significantly increase the vulnerability of homes to theft, as demonstrated in this case.
Commissioner Singh urged the public to adopt more secure methods for key storage, such as using lockboxes or entrusting spare keys to trusted neighbors, to prevent similar crimes in the future. This arrest serves as a critical reminder for Bengaluru residents to prioritize home security and avoid complacency in safeguarding their properties.
