In a significant breakthrough, the Bhelupur police have arrested the prime suspect in a temple theft case that occurred in April. The accused, identified as Raju Khan, was allegedly involved in stealing valuable items from the Hanuman temple located within the Shri Vidya Mutt of Swami Avimukteshwaranand in the Kedar Ghat area. Additionally, two jewellery traders have been apprehended for purchasing the stolen goods.
Details of the Arrest
ACP (Bhelupur) Gaurav Kumar confirmed on Saturday that multiple police teams were deployed to track down Raju Khan, who is accused of stealing religious articles and ornaments from the temple. The stolen items included a silver necklace adorning the deity, a brass vessel, an 'aachmani' vessel, and other valuables. The burglary reportedly took place on the night of April 24.
How the Accused Was Caught
Police teams from the Bhelupur police station, surveillance cell, and crime branch identified Khan through technical evidence. Following the theft, Khan had switched off his mobile phone to avoid detection. However, the police traced him near Ratnakar Park on Saturday and arrested him.
Confession and Recovery
During interrogation, Khan allegedly confessed to selling the stolen silver ornaments to two jewellery traders in the Bhelupur area. The police subsequently arrested the traders, identified as Dhruv Kumar Verma and Santosh Verma. Authorities recovered a brass utensil, the upper portion of a broken silver mace, three silver crowns, a silver chain, a silver fragment, and cash amounting to Rs 1,500.
Previous Criminal Record
According to police, Khan has a history of criminal activity, with four theft-related cases already registered against him at the Bhelupur and Lanka police stations.
About the Author
Rajeev Dikshit reports from Varanasi, covering all beats across 10 districts in east Uttar Pradesh. With specialisation in political, legal, crime, and developmental stories, he also explores religious, cultural, sports, lifestyle, and business stories. He enjoys writing features and long-form content, delivering comprehensive and insightful coverage to readers.
