In a significant breakthrough, Pernem police have apprehended the third and final key member of a sophisticated burglary ring, leading to the recovery of stolen cash and valuables worth over Rs 71 lakh. The arrest of Tejas Gurav (28) marks a crucial step in dismantling the gang responsible for a series of audacious daytime housebreaks and mangalsutra thefts in North Goa.
The Arrest and Mounting Recoveries
Tejas Gurav, a resident of Malpe-Pernem who originally hails from Rajapur in Maharashtra, was taken into custody by the Pernem police. His arrest is directly linked to a string of crimes that had created fear among residents. With Gurav's capture, the police have seized an additional Rs 17.56 lakh in cash. This latest haul brings the total amount recovered from the gang's activities to a staggering sum exceeding Rs 71 lakh.
This development follows the earlier arrests of two other alleged accomplices, Rohan Padwal (29) and Jagannath Bagkar (20). The trio is accused of working in concert to execute their carefully planned thefts.
Movie-Inspired Modus Operandi and Targets
Investigations reveal that the gang operated with a level of planning seemingly inspired by cinematic heists. They specifically targeted homes in the areas of Dhargal, Virnoda, and Korgao during a narrow window of opportunity: between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM when homeowners were likely away at work. This pattern of daytime burglaries began in December 2024.
To evade law enforcement and CCTV surveillance, the accused employed sophisticated tactics. They frequently repainted their getaway scooters every two weeks to change their appearance. Furthermore, they used vehicles fitted with forged license plates featuring microscopic lettering, a method designed to confuse and bypass automated camera systems.
Funding Lavish Lifestyle Through "Gold-Loan" Cycle
The gang had devised a clever method to monetize their stolen goods, primarily gold mangalsutras and jewellery. After the thefts, they would pledge the stolen gold at nationalised banks and private financial firms to secure loans. This created a cycle of illegal funding.
The money obtained through this "gold-loan" scam was then used to finance a lavish lifestyle. Police reports indicate the accused splurged on expensive cars, high-end bikes, and substantial spending on online gaming platforms.
While the investigation continues, it has been revealed that Rohan Padwal, who remains in police custody, was recently booked in a separate case from February 2025. This case involves the theft of a mangalsutra valued at Rs 4.5 lakh. Police are actively working to trace more of the stolen items and complete the chain of evidence.
