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Hyderabad temple thieves nabbed, Rs 26 lakh loot recovered
15 Jan
Summary
- Police busted an interstate temple theft gang in Hyderabad.
- Ornaments worth Rs 26 lakh were recovered from the accused.
- Five suspects were arrested; two remain at large.
In a significant breakthrough, Hyderabad police have apprehended five members of an interstate gang responsible for temple thefts. The operation led to the recovery of gold, silver, and copper ornaments valued at approximately Rs 26 lakh. These stolen items were taken from the Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple on the night of January 6-7, 2026.
A special police team launched an extensive investigation, meticulously reviewing footage from over 200 CCTV cameras and employing technical surveillance. This focused effort enabled investigators to identify the suspects and conduct coordinated raids, culminating in the arrests of Maharaju Mallikarjun, Dunnapothula Pawan Kalyan, Dandi Anil Teja, Kambapu Vijay, and Thangila Manikanta Durga Prasad.
Authorities are continuing their search for the prime accused, Neelapu Neelaiah, who has a history of criminal cases, and another suspect, Bashya Venkat Mohith Kumar. Police revealed that Neelaiah, Mallikarjun, Mohith Kumar, and Kalyan allegedly masterminded the conspiracy to target temples, with the other arrested individuals assisting in the disposal of the stolen property. The recovered items include temple ornaments and idols, a two-wheeler, and five smartphones used by the gang.
