Massive Rs 18 Crore Jewellery Heist Rocks Bengaluru Builder's Residence
In what is being described as one of Bengaluru's most significant domestic thefts in recent times, a Nepalese couple employed as housekeepers has been accused of orchestrating a meticulously planned heist, making off with gold, diamond, and silver jewellery valued at an astonishing Rs 18 crore. The incident occurred at the upscale ASK Lake Garden residence on Kempapura Main Road in the Yamaluru area, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Details of the Alleged Theft and Accused Couple
The primary suspects have been identified as Dinesh (32) and his wife Kamala (25), who had been working as domestic staff at the builder's home for approximately 20 days prior to the theft. According to the police complaint filed by Shimanth S Arjun (28), the son of builder MR Shivakumar, the couple was hired through acquaintances named Vikash and Maya Vishu as replacements for regular staff.
The theft is reported to have taken place between 9:00 AM and 12:30 PM on January 25, while the family was away attending a land worship ceremony in Hoskote. The complainant, along with his wife and mother, had left the house, leaving the accused couple and two cooks, Siddharama and Ambika, on the premises.
Methodical Execution and Stolen Valuables
Police investigations reveal that the accused allegedly disconnected the power supply to disable CCTV cameras before executing the theft, indicating a premeditated plan. Upon returning home after being alerted by cook Ambika at around 12:38 PM, the family discovered that two lockers had been forcibly opened using an iron bar.
- From a ground-floor bedroom locker, approximately 10 kg of gold and diamond ornaments were stolen.
- From a first-floor bedroom locker, around 1.5 kg of gold ornaments, 5 kg of silver jewellery, and Rs 11.5 lakh in cash were missing.
The total estimated value of the stolen items, including cash, amounts to roughly Rs 18 crore, making this one of the most substantial domestic thefts reported in the city. The complainant alleged that the couple had closely observed the family's routines and movements in advance to plan the timing of the heist.
Police Response and Legal Action
Marathahalli police have registered a case under Section 306 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to theft by a clerk or servant of property in the possession of their master. Authorities are actively pursuing the absconding couple, who had agreed to work for a monthly salary of Rs 27,000 but, despite repeated requests, never submitted their identity proofs.
A senior police officer confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on tracking down Dinesh and Kamala. The case highlights growing concerns about domestic staff verification and security in high-net-worth households, particularly in metropolitan areas like Bengaluru.
The builder's family, who has resided in the house for the past 19 years, is cooperating with police as they seek to recover the stolen valuables. This incident serves as a stark reminder for homeowners to implement stringent background checks and security measures when employing domestic help.
