Gangolli temple theft case; cops recover Rs 20 lakh worth jewels from accused priest

Mangalore Today News Network

Gangolli, October 7, 2024: Police have recovered jewellery weighing 256 grams and worth Rs 20.48 lakhs from Narasimha Bhat (43) of Sirsi origin who was the priest in the Sri Mahakali Ammanavara Temple at Kharvikeri, Gangolli where the theft took place.

It is alleged that the priest had replaced the jewels on the idol of the Goddess with fake jewels before fleeing. He was arrested on September 22.

During interrogation he revealed that he had pledged the stolen jewels in various banks and co-operative societies. The same were recovered by the police.