Bengaluru: A routine temple visit turned unexpectedly expensive for a Bengaluru-based software engineer after his branded shoes worth Rs 16,000 were stolen from outside Shri Ganesha Temple in Banashankari III Stage. The incident, which occurred on November 6, prompted the techie to insist on filing an FIR — something he said most devotees avoid, despite frequent cases of footwear theft in the area.
Shoes stolen within minutes
The complainant, a resident of Girinagar, told police that he had purchased the Asics shoes just six months ago. He arrived at the temple on his motorcycle at around 7.20pm and left his footwear outside, along with pairs belonging to other devotees. When he stepped out after offering prayers, barely five minutes later, his shoes had vanished.
Theft reportedly common at the temple
Concerned, he approached the temple authorities, only to learn that footwear thefts were a recurring problem. Even the temple priest had lost slippers twice in the past, while many devotees shared similar experiences. However, none had reported the thefts to the police.
The techie told TOI that ignoring such incidents only encourages repeated offences. “If small thefts are ignored, the same person will commit bigger crimes, so they should be taught a lesson and reformed,” he said.
CCTV footage captures thief in action
A CCTV camera installed at the temple entrance captured a man entering the premises barefoot, posing as a devotee, and walking away with the software engineer’s shoes. In previous instances, a couple of thieves apprehended near the temple reportedly confessed to selling stolen footwear for as little as Rs 20 to Rs 50 to buy liquor.
Police initially reluctant, FIR now filed
The complainant said police were hesitant about registering an FIR for footwear theft, but he insisted, citing the pattern of repeated incidents. Following this, a senior police officer confirmed that a case has been filed under BNS Section 303 (theft). Police have collected CCTV footage and launched efforts to trace the accused.
Efforts underway to curb petty thefts
Police officials said that such minor offences, if left unchecked, can escalate into more serious crimes. They also urged residents and temple authorities to remain vigilant, especially in busy religious spots where thefts are more common. With CCTV evidence in hand, officers are working to identify the thief and prevent similar incidents in the future.