National News 2025-07-29

SERIAL TEMPLE BURGLAR NABBED BY THE STAFF OF PS GHAZIPUR, EAST DISTRICT

Mahesh Chandra - Delhi

One accused arrested in temple theft case in Mayur Vihar Phase-3.
Stolen money and items recovered from his possession.
Accused linked to multiple burglaries in East District.
Identification made through CCTV analysis and police dossiers.

INCIDENT & INVESTIGATION: -

On 12.07.2025, a PCR call was received regarding a theft incident at Hanuman Mandir, Mayur Vihar Phase-3, Delhi. The call was marked to SI Sandeep, who promptly reached the location, recorded the statement of the temple priest, and registered FIR No. 338/25 U/s 305(A)/331(4)/3(5)/317(4) BNS at PS Ghazipur. Investigation was taken up.

Recognizing the gravity and sensitivity of the crime particularly as it occurred in a place of worship, a dedicated police team was constituted under the supervision of SHO/PS Ghazipur and overall guidance of ACP/Madhu Vihar. The team, comprising SI Sandeep, HC Jitender, and Ct. Ajay, began a thorough technical and field investigation. The team analyzed CCTV footage of the temple and adjacent areas. Through scrutiny of police records and criminal dossiers, one of the accused was identified as Monti, a known local offender. Based on leads, a successful operation led to his arrest on 28.07.2025. Upon sustained interrogation, Monti confessed to committing the theft with three accomplices, targeting multiple temples in Mayur Vihar, New Kondli, and nearby areas. Stolen cash and other items were recovered from his possession. His interrogation has also provided crucial links to several other pending burglary cases in East District. Further investigation is in progress.

PROFILE OF THE ACCUSED: -

• Name: Monti

• Age: 22 years

• Address: Rajveer Colony, Delhi

• Education: Studied up to Class 10th class.

• Involvement: 02 Criminal cases.

MOTIVE OF THE ACCUSED: -

The accused admitted that financial greed, poor upbringing, and influence of criminal peers led him to repeatedly target religious institutions, presuming they kept cash offerings and valuables. He also revealed his belief that such places lacked stringent security, making them easy targets.

MODUS OPERANDI:

• Targeted small temples during non-peak hours.

• Conducted prior recce to understand the layout and security vulnerabilities.

• Entered temples stealthily, often by tampering with locks or scaling low boundary walls.

• Focused on stealing cash donation boxes, small idols, and other offerings.

• Operated with three accomplices, each assigned specific roles — lookout, entry, theft, and getaway.

RECOVERY

1. Weapon of offence one sabbal (tool)

2. One Temple bell

3. Rs. 2000/-

APPEAL TO THE PUBLIC:

The East District Police urges the management committees of religious places to:

• Install functional CCTV cameras with night vision.

• Deploy security personnel or caretakers, especially during off-hours.

• Avoid keeping large amounts of cash on the premises overnight.

• Promptly report any suspicious activity or individuals.

Public support plays a vital role in curbing such crimes. Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and inform the police at #112 or contact East Delhi Police directly for any related information.

Mahesh Chandra - Delhi

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Date: 30-07-2025