Nepali Domestic Help Orchestrates 20 Lakh Diamond Heist in Hyderabad's Jubilee Hills
In a shocking incident of domestic betrayal, a newly hired cook from Nepal allegedly drugged his co-workers and executed a meticulously planned burglary, making off with diamond jewellery valued at a staggering 20 lakh rupees. The crime unfolded on Thursday night at the upscale residence of 68-year-old businessman Ravindra Sharma, located in the prestigious Nandagiri Hills area of Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.
Family's Absence Provides Window for Criminal Operation
The Sharma family, including Ravindra, his wife, and his son's family, had stepped out for a dinner engagement at a relative's house, leaving the premises under the watch of their recently employed cook, 22-year-old Bhupender Shahi. This temporary vacancy created the perfect opportunity for Shahi to put his sinister plan into motion. According to police reports, Shahi first targeted his fellow domestic staff, administering drugs to incapacitate them.
With three colleagues rendered helpless—cook Rakesh found semi-conscious, Nageshwar Rao tied up with towels, and Neeraja unconscious in a chair—Shahi then allegedly collaborated with two unidentified accomplices. The trio proceeded to the third-floor bedroom, where they systematically stole the high-value diamond jewellery.
Discovery of the Crime and Chaotic Scene
The burglary was discovered when Sharma's daughter-in-law, Neha, returned home at approximately 8:40 PM with her infant child and the family caretaker, Maya Rani. Their arrival was met with immediate alarm as they found the main gate suspiciously ajar and the watchmen conspicuously absent. Attempts to contact cook Rakesh went unanswered, heightening their concern.
As Maya Rani ventured upstairs to investigate, she encountered an intruder who forcefully pushed her aside before fleeing downstairs. Shahi and another man, reportedly carrying a bag, followed closely behind, escaping into the night. The interior of the house revealed the distressing condition of the drugged and restrained staff, confirming a premeditated act.
Police Investigation and Legal Action
Businessman Ravindra Sharma has asserted that Shahi and his associates likely drugged the other workers specifically to facilitate the burglary without interference. The Jubilee Hills police have taken swift action, registering a formal case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The investigation is currently focused on apprehending Shahi and his two accomplices, with efforts underway to trace the stolen jewellery and understand the full scope of the conspiracy.
This incident has sent ripples through the affluent neighborhood, raising serious questions about domestic security and the vetting of household staff. It underscores the vulnerabilities that can exist even within trusted home environments, prompting calls for heightened vigilance among residents.
