In a twist of fate, Bengaluru police arrested a former domestic worker after a stolen necklace was spotted in her WhatsApp profile picture, nearly four months following a theft complaint. The incident occurred within the HAL police limits in the Whitefield division.
The arrested individual, Renuka, was previously employed at the Purva Fountain Square Apartment complex, where the theft took place. Brijesh Dhami, a 36-year-old resident of the southeast Bengaluru complex, reported the theft on March 30, 2023. Dhami’s complaint detailed that jewellery, last worn by his wife during Diwali 2023, had gone missing from their apartment. The stolen items included two rings, a pair of bangles, a pair of earrings, a necklace, a gold chain, and other small accessories, all of which were discovered missing from a bag in their cupboard on March 29, 2023.
The initial police investigation listed four domestic workers, including Renuka, as suspects. However, despite interrogating them, no substantial evidence was found, and the investigation stalled.
The breakthrough came when Renuka’s WhatsApp display picture revealed her wearing the stolen necklace. According to DCP Shivakumar Gunare of the Whitefield police, “Several months later, one of the domestic workers took a photograph of herself wearing the stolen necklace and used it as her WhatsApp display picture. The former employers of the domestic worker noticed the picture and alerted the police.”
Following this crucial lead, police arrested Renuka on July 30 at her residence in Munnekolalu, Marathahalli. During subsequent interrogation, she confessed to the theft at Dhami’s apartment and also admitted to committing a second theft at another flat within the same complex.
Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of Renuka’s activities and are working to recover any additional stolen items. This case underscores the importance of vigilance and thorough background checks for individuals entrusted with access to personal and valuable belongings.