Woman Robbed During Temple Walk in Trichy: Handbag and Mobile Phone Stolen
A 38-year-old woman was robbed of her handbag and mobile phone by three men riding a two-wheeler on Saturday in Trichy, Tamil Nadu. The incident has raised concerns about safety in the area, particularly for pedestrians engaged in religious activities.
Details of the Robbery Incident
According to police reports, the victim, identified as V Kalaiselvi, was walking as part of a paatha yathra to the Samayapuram Mariamman temple. As she reached a junction near the bridge within the limits of the Gandhi Market police station, the trio approached her on a two-wheeler. In a swift and brazen move, they snatched her handbag and fled the scene before she could react.
Stolen Items and Police Response
The stolen handbag contained ₹15,000 in cash and a mobile phone, causing significant financial and personal loss to the victim. Based on Kalaiselvi's complaint, the Gandhi Market police have registered a case under Section 304(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to theft and robbery offenses. Authorities have confirmed that efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the accused, with investigations focusing on CCTV footage and witness statements from the area.
Context and Community Impact
This robbery highlights ongoing security challenges in urban areas, especially during religious events that attract large numbers of devotees. The paatha yathra is a traditional walking pilgrimage, and such incidents can deter participation in cultural and spiritual practices. Local residents have expressed alarm, calling for increased police patrols and better lighting in the vicinity of the temple and market areas to prevent similar crimes in the future.
Police officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately. They also advised pedestrians, particularly those carrying valuables, to avoid isolated routes and travel in groups whenever possible. The case continues to be a priority for the Gandhi Market police station as they work to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore a sense of safety in the community.
