Jaipur Police Crack Down on Temple Theft Ring
In a significant breakthrough, the Jaipur City Police on Friday successfully dismantled a criminal gang accused of systematically targeting temples across several police station jurisdictions. The operation led to the recovery of nearly 500 grams of stolen silver ornaments, along with cash and various other religious artifacts.
Confessions Reveal Widespread Temple Thefts
Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Hanuman Prasad Meena provided crucial details, stating that the arrested individuals have confessed to committing thefts at more than six temples. These incidents occurred under the jurisdictions of the Khorabisal, Harmada, Bindayaka, Kaladera, and Govindgarh police stations. The gang's modus operandi involved conducting thorough reconnaissance during daylight hours before executing their crimes under the cover of night, typically by breaking locks and swiftly absconding with valuable items.
Complaint Uncovers Elaborate Crime Spree
The case first came to light following a formal complaint lodged by Ramu Lal Sharma (50), the president of the Shri Gwala Baba Seva Samiti. On February 8, Sharma reported the incident at the Khorabisal police station. According to his statement, between 1 AM and 2 AM, a group of four thieves forcibly broke the locks of four temples as well as the main gate in the Mansharampura area.
The stolen items included:
- Silver and gold temple umbrellas (known as chhatra)
- Ornate crowns and a ceremonial throne
- Sacred bowls and a nose ring belonging to Sita Mata
- A ceiling fan and the donation box from a Shiva temple
This recovery marks a critical step in addressing a series of temple thefts that have concerned local communities. The police investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of the gang's activities and to ensure all stolen property is returned to the respective temples.
