Mangaluru, Jan 12, 2025: The Dakshina Kannada district police have arrested a burglar believed to be responsible for several thefts across the region. The suspect, Suraj K (36), a resident of Uppala in Kasaragod district, Kerala, was apprehended after a thorough investigation by a joint team of officers from Puttur Rural, Vittal, and Kadaba police stations.
Suraj had been carrying out daytime burglaries, leaving no trace of his presence at the crime scenes. The breakthrough in the case came on December 20, when a theft was reported at a house in Bhaktakodi, Puttur, where gold jewellery was stolen after the thief forcibly broke open the door. This incident led to a case being filed at the Puttur Rural Police Station.
As more similar thefts surfaced across the district, SP Yathish N directed the formation of a special investigation team. The diligent work of the team led to the identification and arrest of Suraj K, who was linked to seven theft cases in the areas under the jurisdiction of Puttur, Kadaba, Vittal, and Bantwal police stations.
During the arrest, the police seized 200 grams of gold jewellery worth Rs 18 lakh, as well as a car valued at Rs 3 lakh, which Suraj had used for his crimes.
In recognition of the team’s efforts in successfully apprehending the suspect, the district police authorities have announced special rewards for the officers involved in the investigation.