Udupi: Police have solved the case relating to the theft of offering boxes from two temples in the city and arrested the accused involved in the incidents.
The arrested person has been identified as Mudukappa.
According to police, the accused allegedly stole donation boxes from two temples in Udupi, prompting an investigation by the local police. Following the thefts, officers examined CCTV footage from the temple premises and surrounding areas to identify the suspect.
CCTV footage helps trace accused
Preliminary investigations revealed that the accused’s movements had been captured on surveillance cameras installed at the temples. Based on the footage and other evidence gathered during the probe, police were able to trace and apprehend Mudukappa.
Officials said the accused was taken into custody and questioned regarding the incidents.
Police sources indicated that the thefts had created concern among temple authorities and devotees, prompting an intensive investigation to identify the culprit and prevent similar incidents.
Accused linked to previous temple thefts
During preliminary questioning, investigators reportedly found that the accused had allegedly been involved in stealing offering boxes from various temples in the past.
Police are now verifying his possible involvement in other similar cases registered in different parts of the state. Further investigations are under way to ascertain the extent of his alleged criminal activities and whether he acted alone or with the assistance of others.
Authorities are also trying to determine the value of the cash and other items that may have been stolen from the temple offering boxes.
Investigation continues
Police have stated that further inquiries are being conducted and additional details are expected to emerge during the course of the investigation.
The arrest has brought relief to temple authorities and devotees, with police reiterating their commitment to taking stringent action against crimes targeting religious institutions.
Officials have also urged temple managements to strengthen security measures, including the installation of surveillance systems and secure donation boxes, to prevent such incidents in the future.