In a significant development, the Gopalganj police have announced a major breakthrough in the high-profile theft case at the historic Thawe Bhawani Temple. Authorities have arrested the alleged prime accused and mastermind behind the brazen robbery that shocked devotees.
Major Arrest in Temple Robbery Case
The arrest was made on Tuesday, marking a critical turn in the intensive investigation. Police officials have expressed strong confidence that the recovery of the stolen sacred valuables is now imminent. The search for the arrested individual's accomplice is currently ongoing across multiple states.
Details of the Daring Theft
The theft itself was executed on the night of December 17. Two thieves managed to break into the sanctum sanctorum of the revered temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The items stolen are of immense religious and monetary value, including:
- A sacred gold crown
- A silver necklace
- Several other valuable ornaments
- The temple's donation box
The total estimated value of the stolen items exceeds a staggering Rs 90 lakh.
Massive Police Operation and Investigation
Gopalganj Superintendent of Police Awadhesh Dixit revealed the scale of the investigation launched after the crime. As many as 12 special investigation teams (SITs) were formed specifically to crack this sensitive case.
"Intensive raids were conducted over five days across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh," stated SP Dixit. He credited the success to modern investigative techniques, adding, "Using technical evidence, CCTV footage, and mobile surveillance, police zeroed in on the accused."
The arrest brings a measure of relief to the temple trust and countless devotees. The police's swift action, spanning several states, underscores the seriousness with which the theft from a place of deep religious significance was treated. All efforts are now focused on apprehending the remaining suspect and recovering the stolen artifacts.