The Gujarat Police have arrested a serving Indian Air Force official in connection with a sensational broad-daylight armed robbery of Rs 1.5 crore that occurred two years ago. The case, which had remained unsolved since 2024, was cracked following a meticulous investigation that led authorities to the accused, identified as Corporal Ravi Sharma, currently posted at the Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad.
Details of the Robbery
The robbery took place on the afternoon of 15 March 2024 at a jewelry showroom in the Naroda area of Ahmedabad. According to police records, four masked assailants entered the store, brandished firearms, and fled with gold and cash valued at Rs 1.5 crore. The incident made headlines for several days due to its audacity in a busy commercial district during peak hours.
Despite an initial investigation involving forensic teams and witness accounts, the case went cold. The police had formed multiple special investigation teams (SITs) over the past two years but failed to make significant progress. The breakthrough came earlier this month when a routine intelligence check flagged Sharma's unusual financial transactions.
Arrest and Evidence
Sharma was taken into custody from his official residence in Ghaziabad on 24 June 2026. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Amit Patel confirmed the arrest, stating, “We have recovered Rs 42 lakh in cash and several gold ornaments believed to be part of the stolen property. Sharma has confessed to his role in the crime during interrogation.”
Police sources revealed that Sharma had used his military training to plan the heist. He allegedly recruited three civilian accomplices, who are still at large. The investigation uncovered that Sharma had deposited large sums of money into multiple bank accounts over the past year, which raised suspicion. His service weapon was also seized for forensic examination.
Impact and Legal Proceedings
The Air Force official has been handed over to the Ahmedabad Police for further legal proceedings. He will be produced before a local court on 27 June to seek police custody. The Gujarat Police have also launched a manhunt for the remaining suspects, whose identities have been narrowed down based on Sharma's statements.
This arrest marks a significant achievement for the Gujarat Police in solving a high-profile case that had embarrassed law enforcement. The robbery had sparked concerns about security in commercial areas, leading to increased patrolling and surveillance measures. The recovery of stolen assets also provides some relief to the victim, who had been pursuing the case through legal channels.
