Mangaluru: Mangaluru police have arrested Abdul Latheef alias Latheef (47), a notorious thief from Kerala, who was on the run after an attempted robbery at Muthoot Finance, Deralakatte.
Attempted Heist in March
On March 29, miscreants tried to break into the Muthoot Finance office at HM Complex, Deralakatte, under Konaje police limits. The gang had cut the siren cable at the entrance, aiming to loot valuables. Konaje police registered the case (Crime No. 42/2025) under Sections 331[40], 305, 62, 13 of the BNS Act.
Previous Arrests
Earlier, two accomplices—Murali from Idukki and Arshad from Kanhangad—were apprehended in connection with the crime.
Mastermind with a Criminal Past
Latheef, the key planner, had been absconding since the incident. He is also linked to high-profile heists in Kerala, including the Rajadhani Jewellery Shop burglary where 20 kg of gold was stolen, and the Vijaya Bank robbery in Cheravattur, which saw thieves escape with 15.8 kg of gold and ₹2.5 lakh cash.
Police investigations continue, with further leads expected in related theft cases across the region.