Devbhumi Dwarka Police Nab Two in Temple Pilgrim Drugging and Robbery Case
The Local Crime Branch (LCB) of Devbhumi Dwarka has made a significant breakthrough by arresting two individuals accused of a disturbing crime spree targeting elderly pilgrims at the revered Dwarkadhish Temple. The suspects allegedly drugged their victims with laced beverages before robbing them of cash, jewellery, and mobile phones, with recovered loot valued at approximately Rs 3.14 lakh.
Arrests and Recovery Details
Acting on a credible tip-off, police apprehended the duo near a railway crossing along the Khambhaliya–Porbandar highway. The arrested individuals have been identified as Kalu Vaghela, hailing from Langala village in Umrala taluka of Bhavnagar district, and Haresh alias Haklo Devipujak, a resident of Mayadhar village in Palitana taluka. During the operation, authorities seized a substantial cache of stolen items, including:
- Gold and other jewellery
- Cash in various denominations
- Multiple mobile phones
Devbhumi Dwarka Superintendent of Police Jayrajsinh Vala confirmed the arrests and detailed the recovery, emphasizing the severity of the crimes committed against vulnerable pilgrims.
Modus Operandi and Criminal History
Interrogations revealed a calculated and predatory approach by the accused. They specifically targeted elderly pilgrims at religious sites, offering them drinks—such as sugarcane juice or cold beverages—that were secretly laced with intoxicants. Once the victims lost consciousness, the perpetrators swiftly made off with their valuables.
Further investigation uncovered that both suspects have prior criminal records in Bhavnagar and Ahmedabad districts, indicating a pattern of illicit activities. This history has raised concerns about potential links to other unsolved cases in the region.
Victim Accounts and Police Complaints
The arrests follow two separate incidents reported in March, which led to complaints being filed at the Dwarka police station under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The victims' harrowing experiences highlight the brazen nature of the crimes:
- Ruda Mundhva (60), from Tarsai village in Jamnagar district, recounted that he and his uncle were offered sugarcane juice by two strangers during their pilgrimage to Dwarka. After consuming the drink, both fell unconscious, allowing the thieves to steal gold jewellery worth Rs 1.6 lakh and Rs 35,000 in cash. The victims required medical treatment at private and government hospitals following the incident.
- Devji Sonagara (66), a resident of Bhatvadia village, reported a similar ordeal in February. While walking to Dwarka with his family, he was given a cold drink by two men, after which he felt dizzy and collapsed. The accused allegedly escaped with gold jewellery valued at Rs 1.3 lakh and Rs 700 in cash. Sonagara was subsequently admitted to GG Hospital in Jamnagar for necessary care.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
Police are continuing their probe to determine if the accused are involved in additional crimes across Gujarat. The incidents have sparked alarm among the local community and pilgrims, prompting calls for enhanced security measures at religious sites. Authorities urge the public, especially elderly visitors, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately.
This case underscores the need for increased surveillance and protective strategies to safeguard devotees, ensuring that sacred spaces like the Dwarkadhish Temple remain secure for all worshippers.
