Bengaluru: A distressing case has emerged involving Ankit Mayank, a Bengaluru resident who has accused a moving company of theft during a recent relocation. According to Mayank, the incident, which unfolded on August 14, 2024, has left him and his wife devastated, alleging the theft of cash, gold, and other valuables worth lakhs.

Allegations of Theft

Mayank claims that after hiring Halef International to assist with moving his belongings, a team of seven movers stole a bag containing Rs 2 lakh in cash and gold jewellery, including a pair of gold earrings and two gold bangles. He also alleges that other items, such as imported perfumes, gold-plated pens, and important documents, were either stolen or damaged.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Mayank detailed the incident, sharing a video of his home in disarray, which he attributes to the movers’ actions. The video shows the dishevelled state of his home, with items reportedly missing or damaged. He expressed frustration over the movers’ apparent disregard for his belongings and the lack of accountability from the company.

Response from the Moving Company

Halef International has issued a statement refuting the theft allegations. The company claims that Mayank did not inform them about the presence of cash, jewellery, and antiques when booking their services. They assert that they had advised Mayank to secure all valuables separately and did not endorse the transport of such items.

According to the company’s statement, after the move, Mayank suddenly reported a missing bag, which the team allegedly searched for until the early hours of August 15. The company states that the Kodigehalli police, who were initially contacted, found no evidence of theft and did not file an FIR.

Halef International further accuses Mayank and his wife of unlawfully detaining their staff, including physically assaulting one team member. They allege that Mayank demanded Rs 5 lakh from them as ransom and threatened to defame the company if his demands were not met. The company also denies the claims of false allegations and asserts that they are cooperating fully with the ongoing police investigation.

Additional Claims and Counterclaims

Mayank has countered the company’s accusations, asserting that he has not held any employees hostage. He also mentioned that on August 15, the company’s manager visited his apartment multiple times, which he believes contradicts the company’s narrative. Mayank noted that some cash, reportedly Rs 50,000, was found in a cupboard the following morning, but other items remained missing. He expressed suspicion over the movement of employees outside the apartment at night, which he finds dubious.

Mayank has also alleged that his personal details were shared online by the company, leading to unwanted calls and messages. He has warned that if anything happens to him, his wife, or his mother-in-law, the company will be held responsible.

Investigation Underway

An investigation is currently underway to resolve the matter. The conflicting accounts from Mayank and Halef International highlight the complexities involved in such cases, with both parties presenting different versions of events.

As the situation develops, authorities are expected to delve deeper into the allegations to ensure justice and resolve the issue for all involved parties.

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