Bengaluru police have arrested a 24-year-old e-commerce employee for a series of bizarre thefts involving a hidden camera. The suspect, identified as Ravi Kumar, was caught after a detailed investigation into the disappearance of laptops from a tech park in Whitefield.
How the hidden camera was used
According to police, Kumar would place a small hidden camera in the office pantry to observe employees' movements. He then used the footage to identify when desks were unoccupied, allowing him to steal laptops without being noticed. The thefts occurred over several weeks, with a total of 12 laptops worth approximately Rs 12 lakh stolen.
Psychological explanation
During interrogation, Kumar confessed to the crimes and attributed his actions to a psychological condition. “He told investigators that he had been engaging in such acts due to a psychological issue,” said a police officer. The officer added that Kumar had been under stress due to work pressure and personal problems.
Arrest and recovery
Police tracked Kumar through CCTV footage and a tip-off from a colleague who noticed his suspicious behavior. Upon arrest, authorities recovered 8 of the 12 stolen laptops from his residence. Kumar has been booked under sections 379 (theft) and 380 (theft in dwelling house) of the Indian Penal Code.
Impact on workplace security
The incident has raised concerns about security in tech parks. Police have advised companies to implement stricter access controls and monitor pantry areas. “Employees should be vigilant and report any unusual activity immediately,” the officer said.
