Bengaluru: A 55-lakh gold theft case has been cracked by Whitefield police with the arrest of a photographer who allegedly stole 348 grams of gold ornaments while pretending to search for a rental house in Nagondanahalli.
The accused, identified as Kiran, a resident of Whitefield and a professional photographer, was arrested while returning from a visit to Male Mahadeshwara Hills. Police said he had earlier shut down his photo studio due to financial losses during the COVID-19 pandemic and was managing his livelihood through small photography assignments.
According to investigators, Kiran was scouting for a rental house when he noticed a “House for Rent” board outside the residence of a software engineer, Jagadish, in Nagondanahalli. During his visit to enquire, he allegedly spotted the house key placed inside a shoe rack outside the premises.
Taking advantage of the situation, he used the key to unlock the door, entered the house and stole gold ornaments stored inside. The theft came to light when the homeowner lodged a complaint with the police.
Sources said the accused later experienced remorse and travelled to Male Mahadeshwara temple for darshan. Meanwhile, police teams analysed CCTV footage from the surrounding area and identified him. He was apprehended while returning from the temple town.
During interrogation, the accused reportedly confessed to the crime. Based on his statement, police recovered 348 grams of gold ornaments valued at approximately ₹55 lakh.
Police have advised citizens not to leave house keys in easily accessible locations and to strengthen home security measures. Residents have also been urged to immediately report suspicious individuals or activities to the emergency helpline 112 for prompt assistance.
