Mandya Police Achieve Major Breakthrough in Crime Crackdown
In a significant development, the Mandya district police have successfully cracked multiple cases of temple robberies, residential burglaries, and large-scale motorcycle thefts reported across the district. Through coordinated and diligent efforts, the police have arrested 11 accused individuals and recovered stolen property valued at over Rs 34 lakh, marking a substantial victory against organized crime in the region.
Coordinated Operations Yield Impressive Results
The arrests followed meticulously planned and executed operations in key areas including Malavalli, Halaguru, and nearby localities. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Superintendent of Police VJ Shobharani highlighted that these results were achieved through systematic intelligence gathering, swift inter-district coordination, and meticulous investigation by dedicated police teams. She emphasized that the operations sent a strong and clear message to organised criminal networks operating in and around Mandya district, and assured that intensified patrolling, surveillance, and intelligence-based policing would continue to maintain law and order.
Key Breakthrough in Temple Robbery Cases
A major breakthrough in the crackdown was the arrest of a six-member gang involved in stealing gold ornaments and cash from the Pattaladamma temple at Sagya Saraguru village in Malavalli taluk. The accused have been identified as Vijay alias Mark Viji and Mani from Rayakottai in Tamil Nadu's Krishnagiri district, Madhura from Sathanur Colony, Bharath from Mayappanahalli, Naveen alias Kabbala from Ramanagara, and Shabbir from Mysuru.
Police recovered gold and cash worth over Rs 7.1 lakh, which included:
- 24 grams of gold
- 245 grams of silver
- Cash from donation boxes
- Ritual articles such as lamps and bells
Additionally, a motorcycle, a goods auto, and iron rods used to break temple locks were seized. This gang was allegedly involved in multiple temple thefts across Halaguru, Belakavadi, Malavalli town, Sathanur, Kanakapura, and several locations in Tamil Nadu. Notably, four cases linked to this gang were registered at the Halaguru police station alone.
Residential Burglary Case Solved
In another significant operation, Halaguru police arrested Babajan and his 16-year-old son in connection with a burglary that occurred in December 2025 at the house of Gangadhar in Malavalli town. The duo, residents of Shikaripalya in Anekal taluk, are suspected to be involved in at least five house burglary cases within the limits of Malavalli, Halaguru, and Bannur police stations. Police recovered 144 grams of gold and 46 grams of silver, valued at approximately Rs 20 lakh, from their possession.
Motorcycle Theft Racket Busted
Mandya police also made headway in combating vehicle theft by busting a motorcycle theft racket. This operation was initiated after probing a bike stolen near the KSRTC bus stand in Malavalli. Three youths—Karthik of Mysuru, Sagar MS of Banasamudra, and Prajwal MC of Malavalli—were arrested in connection with the case.
Their interrogation led to the recovery of 19 stolen motorcycles worth around Rs 7 lakh. These motorcycles are linked to cases registered in various police limits, including Bannur, Kollegal, Kirugavalu, Mandya East, and Mysuru City, demonstrating the widespread nature of the theft network.
Conclusion: A Robust Response to Crime
The successful crackdown by Mandya district police underscores their commitment to tackling crime through proactive measures and inter-agency cooperation. With 11 arrests and over Rs 34 lakh in recovered property, these operations not only bring justice to victims but also serve as a deterrent to future criminal activities in the district. The police's continued focus on intelligence-based policing and surveillance is expected to further enhance public safety and security in the region.
