Two Arrested in Mumbai for Stealing Priest's Mobile Phone from Khar West Church
In a recent incident in Mumbai, the Khar Police have made arrests in connection with the theft of a cellphone belonging to a priest from inside a church. The case unfolded at St Teresa's Church located in the Khar West area, highlighting concerns over security in religious premises.
Details of the Theft Incident
The theft occurred on January 15, when the priest stepped out of his room on the second floor to have a cup of tea in the dining area. He inadvertently left his mobile phone on a table. Upon returning around 6:30 PM, he discovered that the device had vanished. After making initial inquiries, the priest proceeded to lodge a formal police complaint, setting the investigation in motion.
Police Investigation and Arrests
The Khar Police team swiftly acted by reviewing CCTV footage from the church premises. This led to the identification and tracking of the suspects. On January 22, the police apprehended two individuals: Vaibhav Thorve, aged 31, and Saurabh Bidonia, aged 25. Both accused reside in a chawl situated in Andheri East, Mumbai. Despite the arrests, the stolen mobile phone has not been recovered as of now, and efforts are ongoing to locate it.
Background of the Accused
During the investigation, police revealed that Saurabh Bidonia had a notable background. He was a former student of a convent school in Lonavala, which provided him with awareness about the church's patterns. According to authorities, Bidonia knew that the church tends to be crowded during festivals, potentially exploiting this knowledge in the theft. This insight adds a layer of premeditation to the crime, raising questions about targeted activities in such settings.
Implications and Community Response
This incident has sparked discussions on the need for enhanced security measures in places of worship across Mumbai. Churches, often seen as sanctuaries, are not immune to petty crimes, and this case serves as a reminder for vigilance. The Khar Police's prompt action in using surveillance technology to solve the case is commendable, yet it underscores the ongoing challenge of preventing such thefts in busy urban areas.
Residents and churchgoers in Khar West have expressed concern, urging for better monitoring and awareness to deter similar incidents in the future. As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on recovering the stolen property and ensuring justice is served.
