On August 8, Tamil Nadu Police’s Idol Wing made a significant recovery, seizing a 15th-century Lord Vishnu idol valued at Rs 2 crore. The seizure was part of an operation conducted in response to a tip-off about an attempted sale of the antique statue. The arrest of seven individuals was a key outcome of the operation.
Operation Details
Acting on the intelligence, the police, in collaboration with the Idol Wing, launched a vehicle search on the Thanjavur-Trichy national highway. During the operation, they intercepted a car and two two-wheelers. The search led to the recovery of the 2.5-foot-tall Vishnu idol, which was being transported by the suspects.
Identities and Background
The arrested individuals were identified as Rajendran, Rajkumar, Dinesh, Jaishankar, Vijay, Harris, and Ajitkumar. Initial investigations have revealed that the idol was discovered by Dinesh’s father 12 years ago while desilting the Thozhuvur riverbank. Rather than reporting the find, Dinesh’s father stored the idol in a cattle shed. Following his death, Dinesh, along with his associates, attempted to sell the idol for Rs 2 crore, leading to their arrest.
Investigation and Suspicions
Authorities suspect that the Vishnu idol may have been stolen from a temple, as it was not reported or documented before its attempt to be sold. A theft case has been registered under Section 305(d) of the BNS (Bharatiya Nideshankini Samiti) Act. Additionally, the vehicles used in the smuggling attempt have been seized. Further investigations are underway to determine the origins of the idol and the full extent of the smuggling network.
Previous Recoveries
This incident follows a similar case in July, where the Tamil Nadu Idol Wing recovered six antique idols valued at Rs 22 crore. In that case, three individuals were arrested after they claimed to have found the idols while digging land for house construction.