Police in Chennai have successfully apprehended three individuals, including two minors, for allegedly breaking into a temple in Virugambakkam and making off with cash and valuables. The arrests came after the suspects targeted the same place of worship for a second time, with newly installed security cameras playing a crucial role in their identification.
CCTV Footage Cracks the Case
The incident came to light when office-bearers of the local residents' welfare association approached the K K Nagar police station on November 27 to file a formal complaint. They reported that unidentified persons had broken the lock of the temple a day earlier, on November 26, and escaped with the contents of the hundi (offering box). The stolen amount was reported to be approximately 7,000 rupees collected from devotees' offerings.
Acting swiftly, police officers examined available CCTV footage from the vicinity. The video evidence helped them identify the suspects as 21-year-old Ranjan, a resident of KK Nagar, and two juveniles. Further investigation revealed a startling pattern: this was not the group's first attempt. The same individuals had stolen hundi offerings from the temple on a previous occasion, but at that time, authorities were unable to trace them due to a lack of conclusive evidence.
Preventive Measure Leads to Arrest
Following the initial theft, police had suggested the welfare association install CCTV cameras as a preventive security measure. The association heeded this advice and set up the surveillance system. This proactive step proved invaluable when the burglars struck again. The clear footage from the cameras was instrumental in confirming their identities and nabbing them.
Legal Proceedings Begin
The adult accused, Ranjan, was produced before a magistrate and remanded to judicial custody. The two juvenile suspects faced a different legal process. They were produced before the Juvenile Justice Board and subsequently admitted to the government observation home in Kellys as the legal proceedings against them continue.
This case highlights the effectiveness of community-police cooperation and the importance of modern security measures in safeguarding public and religious spaces. The K K Nagar police's follow-up advice after the first crime and the residents' association's prompt action ultimately led to the resolution of the thefts.
