The recent rise in daylight thefts at jewellery stores in Karkala has left local shopkeepers on edge, particularly small jewellers who are being targeted by thieves. Following two incidents in quick succession, police have issued a warning to shop owners to increase their security measures.
Two months ago, a theft occurred at a jewellery shop in Karkala Market, and another recent incident has raised alarm among the local business community. Karkala, home to over 20 jewellery stores, has long been a shopping hub for people from nearby rural areas looking to purchase jewellery for weddings and celebrations.
The first incident involved a thief posing as a customer at Usha Jewelers, attempting to steal a chain, but he was caught in the act. The accused, a local resident, was promptly arrested. However, on December 27, another theft took place at Pranav Jewelers on Rathabeedi Road, where a man disguised as a customer managed to escape with rings and earrings worth over Rs 2 lakh. Police tracked the thief swiftly and are currently questioning him.
Many thieves target smaller stores with minimal security or lone staff, believing they can escape with stolen goods easily. To combat this growing threat, police have urged jewellery shop owners to install high-quality CCTV cameras and implement stricter security protocols to safeguard their businesses.