Puttur – In a significant breakthrough, Puttur Town Police have arrested a man accused of stealing a copper temple bell weighing about 10 kg and valued at approximately ₹8,000.
The theft, reported on July 26 under Crime No. 63/2025, was booked under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023. Following a targeted investigation, police apprehended the suspect, identified as Sanshuddin alias Sanshu (50), a resident of Kabaka, Puttur.
According to police, Sanshuddin is a habitual offender with a prior record. He was earlier arrested in 2004 in connection with Crime No. 83/2004 under IPC Sections 454 (house-breaking) and 380 (theft) at the same station. His repeat offences have sparked concern among both residents and law enforcement agencies.
Police teams tracked the accused using leads developed during the investigation, with officers noting that his criminal history was instrumental in pinpointing his involvement.
Authorities are now investigating whether he has ties to other theft incidents in the area, particularly those involving religious institutions. The case remains under active probe, with more details expected as questioning continues.