Thieves target temple near Farangipete; theft caught on CCTV camera

Thieves target temple near Farangipete; theft caught on CCTV camera

Mangalore Today News Network

Bantwal, November 5, 2024: Thieves who broke into the Sri Devakikrishna Ravalanatha Temple at Sajeer near Farangipete during the wee hours of Monday have stolen cash and valuables worth Rs 2.3 lakhs. The theft has been caught on CCTV camera.

A gang of five thieves who arrived by a vehicle, broke open the rear door of the temple and entered the sanctum sanctorum. They then laid their hands on the silver Peetha weighing 1.5 kg, and other silver and gold articles and even stole the donations of devotees that was collected in the donation box. It is said the box was full of donations as there was a special event at the temple on November 3.

The priest of the temple who resided nearby on hearing dogs barking checked the CCTV footages and came to know about the theft by the armed gang. He immediately alerted the temple  manager who rushed to the spot. However the thieves had made good their way by then.

The CCTV footages revealed that the thieves were barefooted and had covered their faces with masks. It is learnt the stolen valuables were centuries old.

Finger print experts have visited the temple and investigations are in progress.