Vadodara: Nearly four months after a businessman was robbed of Rs 10 lakh in the Karelibaug area, the Detection of Crime Branch (DCB) on Thursday arrested a 21-year-old man for his alleged role in the offence. The accused, identified as Suraj Salat, is said to have assisted the gang by conducting a reconnaissance of the victim's residence prior to the robbery.
Details of the Robbery
The robbery occurred on the night of January 16 when businessman Leelaram Revani was returning home. According to police, the gang threw chili powder into Revani's eyes and snatched a bag containing Rs 10 lakh in cash before fleeing the scene. Revani later filed a complaint against unidentified persons, prompting law enforcement to initiate an investigation.
Investigation and Arrests
Police investigations subsequently revealed that Salat, a relative of one of the accused already in custody, had surveyed Revani's movements and residence before the crime. Within two days of the robbery, authorities had arrested seven men allegedly involved in the offence. They recovered not only the stolen Rs 10 lakh but also foreign currency notes from 20 countries valued at over Rs 2.54 crore from their homes.
The substantial recovery initially led investigators to suspect the gang's involvement in an illegal foreign currency racket. However, further investigation clarified that the entire cash haul, including the foreign currency, belonged to Revani, who operates a gift shop.
Significance of the Case
This case highlights the meticulous planning behind the robbery and the subsequent police work that led to multiple arrests and the recovery of significant assets. The involvement of a relative in the reconnaissance phase underscores the importance of thorough investigation in cracking such crimes.
