Mangaluru: A daring theft was reported from Koppalakadu near Konchadi on Wednesday evening, December 25, when an unidentified thief allegedly stole a gold chain from a woman at around 6.30 pm. The incident, which occurred within a residential compound, was captured on a CCTV camera, providing crucial visual evidence for the police investigation.

According to information available, the thief entered the house compound by jumping over the compound wall. CCTV footage reportedly shows the suspect moving swiftly into the premises, targeting the woman, and fleeing the scene moments later after snatching the gold chain. The sudden nature of the act left the victim little time to react or raise an alarm.

The stolen gold chain is said to have weighed approximately three and a half pounds, as reported by the family. The loss has caused distress to the victim and her family, both emotionally and financially, given the high value of gold.

Thief changed clothes to evade identification

After committing the theft, the suspect reportedly ran a short distance away from the house and changed clothes in an apparent attempt to avoid recognition. This calculated move suggests prior planning and awareness of CCTV surveillance in the area.

Residents in the locality said the thief disappeared soon after changing clothes, making it difficult for passers-by to identify or apprehend him. The act of changing attire has raised concerns that the accused may be familiar with the area or may have conducted reconnaissance before executing the theft.

Police sources said CCTV footage from nearby houses and roads is being examined to trace the suspect’s movement before and after the incident.

CCTV footage provides key clues

The CCTV visuals, which have since circulated among residents, clearly show the suspect entering the compound and fleeing within a short span of time. While the footage captures the sequence of events, the identity of the thief is not immediately clear due to distance and camera angles.

Investigators are hopeful that additional CCTV cameras installed along approach roads and nearby junctions will help establish the route taken by the accused and possibly identify the vehicle, if any, used for escape.

Residents said the incident highlights the importance of CCTV surveillance, which often serves as a vital tool in solving property-related crimes.

Police begin investigation

Police from the Urva Police Station visited the spot soon after receiving information about the theft. Officers conducted a preliminary inspection of the scene, spoke to the victim and neighbours, and reviewed the CCTV footage available at the house.

A case has been registered, and efforts are under way to identify and nab the accused. Police said special attention is being paid to known offenders involved in chain-snatching and house-entry theft cases in the city.

An officer associated with the investigation said that such crimes are often carried out swiftly and that public cooperation is crucial in tracking suspects. Residents have been urged to report any suspicious movement or unfamiliar persons noticed in the area around the time of the incident.

Residents express concern over safety

The theft has caused concern among residents of the locality, particularly women and elderly people. Many said incidents of chain-snatching and thefts targeting residential areas have been reported in different parts of the city in recent months.

Following the incident, some residents discussed the need for better lighting, secure compound walls, and coordination among neighbours to keep an eye on suspicious activity. A few locals also suggested the formation of neighbourhood watch groups to enhance safety.

Conclusion

The chain-snatching incident has once again drawn attention to the issue of residential security and street-level crimes. While CCTV footage has provided valuable leads, residents are hoping for swift police action and the arrest of the accused. Police have assured that the investigation is being taken seriously and that all possible steps will be taken to solve the case and prevent similar incidents in the future.