Indore: Dewas police have dismantled an inter-state gang accused of stealing gold chains from devotees at crowded religious gatherings. Seven members of the gang, originally from Tamil Nadu and residing in Delhi, were arrested in Bhopal following a multi-city tracking operation.
Investigation Initiated
The investigation commenced after a gold chain and pendant, valued at Rs 3.5 lakh, were stolen from a 60-year-old devotee during a religious discourse at the Mandi Merchant Association Dharamshala on June 10, 2026.
Operation Trinetram
Under the directives of SP Punit Gehlot, a special team under ‘Operation Trinetram’ scanned hundreds of CCTV footage clips. The data revealed that the suspects walked 500 metres from the venue, took an autorickshaw to the highway, and escaped in a luxury car.
Gang's Modus Operandi
The gang utilised a structured operating method: Four women embedded themselves among devotees during high-density moments like prayers to steal the jewellery, while three male members managed logistics, surveillance and transport.
Interrogations revealed that within the first fortnight of June, the gang executed eight similar thefts across Agra, Gwalior, Shivpuri, and Jabalpur.
Recoveries and Seizures
The police recovered nine stolen gold chains weighing 156 grams, a luxury vehicle, six mobile phones and cash, with the total seizure valued at Rs 50 lakh. The suspects’ mobile devices contained detailed schedules for over 28 upcoming religious events across Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Delhi, prompting Dewas authorities to alert neighboring state police departments.
Prior Criminal Record
The arrested persons face prior theft and robbery charges in Delhi, Mumbai, and Haryana.
