Surathkal Police Crack Daiva Idol Theft Case in Mangaluru, Arrest Notorious Accused
In a significant breakthrough, the Surathkal police have successfully cracked a burglary case involving the theft of sacred daiva idols, puja articles, and household items from a locked residence in Kulai, Mangaluru. Acting swiftly on technical evidence and CCTV footage, the police team managed to apprehend the prime accused along with a receiver of stolen property, recovering valuables worth nearly Rs 2 lakh in the process.
Complaint Details and Initial Investigation
The case came to light when Amita, a 43-year-old complainant, filed a report stating that her mother's house had been targeted by thieves. The house, which remains unoccupied after regular puja rituals and lamp lighting, contained precious idols of daivas and related puja articles. According to the complaint, on the night of December 26 last year, unknown individuals allegedly removed roof tiles, trespassed into the premises, and stole articles valued at approximately Rs 1 lakh.
The stolen inventory included two copper idols, a silver idol of the daivas, a silver kadsale, two copper bells, four copper vessels, and one LED television. Based on this complaint, a formal case was registered at the Surathkal police station under Sections 331(4) and 305(A) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) on December 27.
Police Investigation and Arrests
During the course of the investigation, police officers meticulously examined CCTV cameras installed in and around the crime scene, employing advanced technical methods to gather crucial evidence. This diligent approach led to the identification and subsequent arrest of Wajeed J, also known as Waji, a 27-year-old resident of Chokkabettu in Surathkal, originally from Bajpe.
Upon interrogation, Wajeed confessed to committing the theft and revealed that he had sold the brass and copper items to another individual named Sayyad Ali. Acting on this information, the police arrested Sayyad Ali, a 40-year-old from Belthangady taluk currently staying in Jokatte, on January 27.
Recovery of Stolen Property and Criminal Background
From the accused persons, the police successfully recovered stolen property worth approximately Rs 1.9 lakh. The recovered items included brass puja articles, copper puja articles, a television set with a set-top box, two mobile phones used by the accused, and a scooter that had been stolen from the limits of the Kavoor police station.
City Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy CH provided further insights into the case, noting that the investigation uncovered Wajeed's extensive criminal history. A 'B' rowdy-sheet had been opened against him at the Surathkal police station, and he was involved in multiple cases across Mangaluru city, Udupi, Uttara Kannada, and Hassan districts. His criminal record includes an attempt to murder, two robbery cases, three cattle theft cases, six house burglaries, three vehicle theft cases, and another criminal case. Wajeed had absconded without appearing before the court, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant against him.
Legal Proceedings and Conclusion
The accused individuals were produced before a court on Wednesday and have been remanded to judicial custody. This case highlights the effective use of technology and investigative techniques by the Surathkal police in solving crimes and bringing offenders to justice, particularly those with a history of criminal activities.
