Mangaluru: Police have arrested a woman from Ullal in connection with two separate gold chain thefts reported in Dakshina Kannada earlier this year. The accused, identified as Minnath, was taken into custody on September 12, and gold jewellery weighing 18 grams and valued at ₹1.8 lakh was recovered from her possession.

Theft at Tokkottu garment store

According to police, the first incident occurred on June 2 when Rahmath, a resident of Belma village, visited Sagar Collection, a garment store in Tokkottu, along with her children. While taking shelter from the rain near Street Palace Bakery, a burqa-clad woman allegedly snatched a 10-gram gold chain from Rahmath’s daughter and fled the spot.

A case was registered at Ullal police station, and investigations were launched to identify the suspect.

Theft during wedding at Konaje

During interrogation after her arrest, Minnath confessed to her involvement in another theft that took place on July 9 at KMS Convention Hall in Konaje. At a wedding function, she allegedly stole an 8-gram gold chain from a bag. A case had already been registered at Konaje police station in connection with the incident.

Police later recovered the stolen jewellery, bringing the total recovery from both cases to 18 grams of gold.

Arrest and custody

Acting on leads, Ullal police arrested Minnath on September 12. The stolen chain from the Tokkottu case was recovered, and upon further questioning, the second theft came to light. Both cases were closed with the recovery of the stolen items.

She was produced before court and remanded to 14 days of judicial custody.

Ongoing investigation

Police Commissioner confirmed the recovery of jewellery and said further investigation is underway to determine whether the accused was involved in other similar thefts in the region.

Officials added that Minnath’s modus operandi involved blending into crowded areas, using the cover of gatherings or weather conditions to commit thefts, and quickly fleeing the scene.

Conclusion

The swift action by Ullal and Konaje police helped solve two cases of chain snatching and theft within a short span. Authorities reiterated their appeal to citizens to remain vigilant, especially during public gatherings and while travelling, to avoid such incidents.