Mangaluru: A 63-year-old woman has reported the theft of gold jewellery, cash, and important documents during a bus journey in Dakshina Kannada district. The incident came to light after she alighted from a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus near Bantwal.
The complainant, Christin Vegas, a resident of Barimaru village in Bantwal taluk, has filed a complaint at the Bantwal Town Police Station regarding the theft, which is suspected to have occurred while she was travelling on Saturday evening.
Theft during bus journey
According to the complaint, Christin had attended a mehendi function of a relative in Ujire on April 24. After spending time at her sister’s residence, she began her return journey later in the day along with her husband.
At around 5 pm, the couple boarded a KSRTC bus at Beltangady. The bus was operating on the Dharmasthala–Mangaluru route, a frequently used corridor in the region.
Christin stated that she was seated behind the driver and had kept a small purse containing valuables inside a larger black handbag, which she believed was secure throughout the journey.
Valuables missing on arrival
The theft was discovered only after the couple got down at BC Road at around 5.50 pm. Upon checking her bag, Christin realised that the small purse was missing.
The stolen items include a gold chain weighing approximately 5.5 sovereigns and a gold ring weighing about 4 grams. The total weight of the stolen gold is estimated to be around 48 grams, with a combined value of nearly ₹6.2 lakh.
In addition to the jewellery, the purse also contained ₹3,500 in cash, an ATM card, and a voter ID card.
Police suspect theft en route
Based on the complaint, police believe that unidentified individuals may have stolen the purse during the journey between 5 pm and 5.50 pm. The crowded nature of public transport and limited space often provide opportunities for such thefts, especially when passengers are unaware.
A case has been registered under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and further investigation is underway to identify the culprits. Authorities are likely to examine possible leads, including passenger movement and any available surveillance footage along the route.
Growing concerns over passenger safety
Incidents of theft on buses have raised concerns among commuters in coastal Karnataka. Despite precautions, passengers carrying valuables remain vulnerable to theft, particularly during peak travel hours or on busy routes.
Police have advised travellers to remain vigilant, avoid carrying excessive jewellery during travel, and keep personal belongings within sight at all times. Using bags with secure zippers and minimising handling of valuables in public spaces are also recommended as preventive measures.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the need for increased awareness and caution among bus passengers, especially when travelling with valuable items. As investigations continue, police are working to trace those responsible and prevent similar occurrences in the future.