In a swift operation, the Pandavapura police in Karnataka's Mandya district have apprehended a 19-year-old youth linked to a series of chain-snatching incidents. The arrest led to the recovery of stolen gold ornaments and a two-wheeler, collectively valued at a substantial Rs 5.6 lakh.
Daylight Robbery in Kadaba Village
The case broke open following a bold daylight robbery reported on December 7. The incident occurred around 3:30 PM in Kadaba village, located within Pandavapura taluk. The victim, Jayamma, was sitting outside her house when the accused approached her on a scooter. Pretending to ask for drinking water, he seized the opportunity, allegedly snatched her gold mangalsutra weighing approximately 10 grams, and sped away from the scene.
Swift Police Investigation and Arrest
Acting promptly on the complaint, a case was registered at the Pandavapura police station under the relevant section of the new criminal code, Section 309(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. A special team, led by Inspector Sharath Kumar, was formed. The team meticulously gathered technical and field-level evidence, which enabled them to track down and arrest the suspect within an impressive 24 hours, on December 8.
The arrested individual has been identified as Darshan M., also known as Gundu. He is a resident of Hootagalli in Mysuru district and hails originally from Chakkuru village in HD Kote taluk. Upon his arrest, the police successfully recovered 47 grams of gold ornaments and the two-wheeler allegedly used to commit the crimes.
Criminal History and Police Commendation
Further investigation into the matter revealed that the accused is not a first-time offender. Darshan M. is reportedly involved in three other criminal cases already registered at the Pandavapura police station, all related to theft and robbery. This arrest has potentially solved a spree of similar crimes in the taluk.
Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi publicly praised the Pandavapura police team for their rapid investigation and the successful recovery of the stolen property. Their efficient work has brought relief to the local community and serves as a warning to criminals operating in the region.