Pune Home Robbery: Key Hidden in Shoe Rack Leads to Rs 1 Lakh Gold Theft

A seemingly convenient hiding spot for a house key turned into a costly mistake for a 47-year-old resident of Old Sangvi in Pune. In a startling incident on Tuesday afternoon, an unidentified individual exploited this lapse in security to commit a burglary, making off with gold jewellery valued at approximately Rs 1 lakh.

The Costly Convenience

The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed by authorities, had placed a key to the main door lock in a shoe rack outside his home. This was intended as a practical measure for his son to access the house. However, this routine act had severe consequences when an unknown person discovered and used the key to enter the premises unlawfully.

Sequence of Events

According to details provided by the Sangvi police, the complainant left for work on Tuesday, leaving the key in the shoe rack. Later that day, around 2:15 PM, he returned home with his wife and son. Upon arrival, he retrieved the key from its hiding place and unlocked the door.

The discovery of the theft was immediate and shocking. As the wife proceeded to store some jewellery in a cupboard, she realized that a significant portion of their gold ornaments was missing. The family promptly conducted a thorough search of the house, but the valuables were nowhere to be found.

Police Response and Investigation

The victim officially lodged a complaint with the Sangvi police on Wednesday, detailing the incident and the estimated loss. An officer involved in the case elaborated on the circumstances, stating that the key was likely taken by the perpetrator to facilitate the robbery of the jewellery.

"Our investigations are on," the officer confirmed, emphasizing that the police are actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the suspect. The case highlights growing concerns about home security practices in residential areas.

Security Implications

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with leaving keys in accessible or predictable locations. Security experts often advise against such practices, recommending instead: