The Moodbidri Police have successfully arrested 34-year-old Prashanth Salian, also known as Pachu, in connection with several gold chain thefts, including a recent incident in which he stole from a 70-year-old woman, Mrs. Indira, in Gujjara Gundi, Beluwai village, on March 31, 2025. The theft occurred within the Moodbidri Police Station’s jurisdiction, prompting a swift investigation that led to Salian’s arrest.
Salian, a resident of Kundila House, Kanthavar village in Karkala Taluk, Udupi District, confessed to the theft during questioning. He also admitted to a similar crime on December 2, 2024, where he stole from another elderly woman near the Ambareesh cave in Karkala Taluk. The Karkala Rural Police Station is currently investigating this earlier case.
Authorities recovered a gold mangalsutra and a piece of the gold chain taken from Mrs. Indira, with the total estimated value of the stolen items amounting to around Rs 3,30,000. Additionally, the red TVS Apache motorbike (KA 20 X 3393), which was used in the commission of these crimes, was seized.
The operation was carried out under the guidance of Police Commissioner Mr. Anupam Agrawal, IPS, and the supervision of DCPs Mr. Siddharth Goyal (Crime & Security) and Mr. Ravishankar (Administration & Security). ACP Mr. Srikanth K. also played a key role, with Police Inspector Mr. Sandesh P.G. leading the investigation team. PSI officers Mr. Krishnappa and Ms. Pratibha K.C., along with ASIs Rajesh and HC officers, contributed significantly to the case.
The successful arrest highlights the commitment of the Mangalore police in combating crime and protecting the community. The investigation continues as authorities explore any potential links between Salian and other similar thefts in the area.
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