Grave Robbery in Coimbatore
In a shocking incident in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, the grave of a fish seller was dug up by thieves who stole the gold chain that had been buried with him. The incident came to light on June 23, 2026, when family members visited the cemetery and discovered the grave disturbed.
Details of the Incident
The deceased, identified as 55-year-old Muthu, was a fish vendor who passed away on June 20. According to his family, Muthu was buried with his favorite gold chain, which he had worn for years. The grave was located in the municipal cemetery in Ondipudur, Coimbatore. When relatives arrived on June 23 for a customary visit, they found the grave had been dug open and the coffin partially exposed. The gold chain, valued at approximately Rs 60,000, was missing.
Police Investigation
Police were immediately informed, and a case has been registered under the Indian Penal Code for grave robbery and theft. A senior police officer stated, "We suspect the thieves knew about the gold chain and specifically targeted this grave. We are examining CCTV footage from nearby areas and questioning locals." The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to identify the culprits.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked outrage among residents, who expressed shock and anger. "It is a heinous act to disturb a person's final resting place for greed," said a neighbor. The family has demanded swift action and increased security at cemeteries to prevent such incidents in the future.
Broader Context
Grave robberies are rare in Tamil Nadu, but similar incidents have been reported in other parts of India where valuables are buried with the deceased. Police have urged families to avoid burying valuable items and to inform authorities if they suspect any risk.
