Massive Rs 18 Crore Heist at Bengaluru Builder's Residence; Nepali Domestic Help Couple on the Run
The Bengaluru police have launched an intensive manhunt for a Nepali couple accused of orchestrating a staggering Rs 18 crore robbery at the home of a local builder. The theft, which ranks among the most substantial heists involving domestic workers in recent memory, has sent shockwaves through the city's affluent neighborhoods.
Details of the Audacious Robbery
According to police reports, the incident occurred on Sunday morning at the residence of Shimanth S Arjun, a 28-year-old builder and developer living on Kempapura main road in Yemaluru. The family had left their home around 9 am to attend a relative's bhoomi puja ceremony before house construction, providing the perfect opportunity for the perpetrators.
The accused, identified as Dinesh and Kamala, had been employed as housekeeping staff at the property for merely 20 days before executing their carefully planned crime. Investigators believe the couple used their brief employment period to meticulously observe the family's movements and routines, waiting for the ideal moment to strike.
Method of Operation and Stolen Valuables
The police investigation reveals that the couple, possibly with accomplices, broke into the house while the family was away. Using an iron rod, they forced open a cupboard on the ground floor, making off with approximately 10 kg of gold and diamond jewellery. Not satisfied with this haul, they proceeded to the first floor where they broke into a bedroom locker, stealing additional valuables.
The total stolen property includes:
- 11.5 kg of gold and diamond jewellery worth approximately Rs 17.74 crore
- 5 kg of silver ornaments valued at Rs 14.6 lakh
- Cash totaling Rs 11.5 lakh
This brings the combined value of the stolen items to a staggering Rs 18 crore, making it one of the most substantial domestic thefts recorded in Bengaluru's recent history.
Discovery and Police Response
The theft was discovered around 12:38 pm by another domestic worker named Ambika, who had been employed at the residence for a longer period than the accused couple. Upon finding the broken cupboards and locker, Ambika immediately contacted Shimanth by phone to report the crime.
The Marathahalli police station has registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the accused under Section 306 (theft by clerk or servant) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Investigators have obtained CCTV footage from the surrounding area and are currently analyzing it to identify the perpetrators and any potential accomplices.
Investigation and Suspected Escape
Police officials revealed that the household employed other domestic workers besides the accused couple, including Sudham and Ambika, who had been working there for extended periods without incident. This has led investigators to focus specifically on Dinesh and Kamala's brief tenure and suspicious behavior.
"We suspect that they may have fled to another state or may be in their home country. We are investigating the matter thoroughly," stated a police officer involved in the case. The authorities are coordinating with multiple agencies and considering the possibility that the couple might have planned their escape route in advance.
The case highlights growing concerns about security in high-value residences and the vetting processes for domestic staff, particularly in Bengaluru's affluent communities where such substantial valuables are kept at home.
