Mumbai Businessman Robbed of Cash and Gold Worth Rs 3.47 Lakh in Ahmedabad Auto Ride
A 58-year-old Mumbai-based businessman was allegedly robbed of cash and gold ornaments valued at approximately Rs 3.47 lakh during an autorickshaw journey in Ahmedabad earlier this month. The incident, which has raised concerns about passenger safety in the city, was formally reported to the Shaherkotda police on Monday.
Details of the Alleged Robbery
The complainant, who operates a tea outlet business in Mumbai, traveled to Ahmedabad with his wife on March 4. The couple was en route to Rajasthan to attend a family wedding. According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed with the police, they arrived at Kalupur railway station and hired an autorickshaw to reach Asarwa railway station for their onward journey.
At the time of boarding, two passengers were already seated in the autorickshaw. During the ride, another man joined the vehicle midway and sat beside the businessman's wife. The FIR states that this individual convinced the woman to place her handbag near his feet, citing a lack of space in the crowded auto.
Valuables Stolen in the Incident
The handbag contained a small purse with Rs 12,000 in cash and several valuable items, including:
- A two-tola gold chain
- One-tola gold earrings
- Two-tola gold bangles
- A silver ornament
- House and bank locker keys
The total estimated value of the stolen cash and jewellery is Rs 3.47 lakh, making this a significant theft case.
Discovery of the Theft and Police Complaint
Upon reaching Asarwa railway station, the couple disembarked from the autorickshaw. They noticed that the driver fled without collecting the fare, which immediately raised suspicions. Moments later, they discovered that the handbag was partially open and the purse containing the cash and jewellery was missing.
The couple initially alerted local police about the incident but had to proceed to Rajasthan due to prior wedding commitments. After returning from their trip, they formally approached the Shaherkotda police station and lodged a detailed complaint, leading to the registration of the FIR.
Police Investigation Underway
Authorities at the Shaherkotda police station have launched an investigation into the robbery. They are examining CCTV footage from the area and questioning potential witnesses to identify the suspects involved, including the autorickshaw driver and the additional passengers.
This incident highlights ongoing security challenges for travelers using public transport in urban areas, prompting calls for increased vigilance and safety measures.
