Bengaluru: Surge in thefts by domestic workers: 20% rise in cases with Rs 46.5 crore stolen in 2024

The city experienced a significant 20% increase in thefts by domestic help last year, with 383 cases reported, up from 320 in 2023. Among these, a notable incident involved a couple from Nepal, working at a jeweler's residence, along with two accomplices, who decamped with items worth Rs 15.15 crore, including 8 kg of gold and Rs 40 lakh in cash, in November 2024.

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Another case saw a former car driver, who had made duplicate keys of his previous employer's house, stealing 700 grams of gold in December when he knew the owners were away.

The total value of goods stolen by domestic helps in 2024 reached an estimated Rs 46.5 crore, with recoveries amounting to Rs 9.8 crore. Deputy Commissioner of Police Shekhar H Tekkannavar reportedly emphasized the need for better vetting of domestic help, suggesting verification with local police to check criminal records and hiring through authorized agencies for background checks.

Most thefts involved migrant workers from other states, with some specifically targeting affluent homes after gaining trust. The negligence of employers in record-keeping often complicates tracing these culprits, affecting case detection rates. Tekkannavar also highlighted that some theft cases might be falsely reported when employers want to dismiss domestic help over salary disputes.