Kundapur: Burglars allegedly broke into a jewellery shop near the National Highway at Maravanthe by cutting open its shutter with a gas cutter and escaped with silver bullion and cash sometime between the night of July 4 and the morning of July 5.
The burglary occurred at the jewellery shop owned by Vishwanath Billava, located in Maruthi Complex in Maravanthe village.
Gas cutter used to gain entry
According to preliminary information, heavy rain on the night of July 4 is believed to have aided the burglars in carrying out the theft without attracting attention.
The accused allegedly used a gas cutter to cut through the shop’s shutter before entering the premises.
After gaining access, they reportedly stole around 600 grams of silver bullion valued at approximately Rs 1.44 lakh, along with Rs 1,000 in cash kept in the shop’s drawer and cabin.
The burglars then fled the scene.
CCTV cameras allegedly damaged
It is also alleged that the burglars damaged CCTV cameras installed in neighbouring shops before committing the theft.
Investigators are examining whether the cameras were deliberately disabled to prevent the suspects from being identified during the crime.
Police are also verifying whether any footage from nearby locations can assist in tracing the accused.
Police begin investigation
Kundapur DySP H D Kulkarni, Byndoor Circle Inspector Shivakumar, Gangolli Police Sub-Inspectors Pavan Nayak and Sudarshan, along with other police personnel, visited the spot on Sunday and conducted an inspection.
A technical team and fingerprint experts also examined the crime scene and collected evidence to assist the investigation.
Police have initiated a case and are analysing all available leads.
Professional gang suspected
The use of specialised equipment such as a gas cutter, the alleged damage to nearby CCTV cameras and the timing of the burglary during heavy rainfall have led investigators to suspect the involvement of professional burglars.
However, police said the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and the identity of those responsible would be established only after the investigation is completed.
Efforts are underway to identify and trace the suspects involved in the burglary.
Conclusion
The daring burglary at Maravanthe has raised concerns among local traders, particularly due to the suspected involvement of professional criminals. Police have intensified their investigation and are examining forensic evidence and other leads to identify the accused and recover the stolen property.