Elderly woman reports jewellery theft from baggage during US trip

A 62‑year‑old woman alleged theft of gold, diamonds, cash, and medicines from her checked‑in baggage on a Bengaluru–US trip via Abu Dhabi

Bengaluru police have registered a case after a 62‑year‑old woman alleged that gold and diamond jewellery worth several lakhs of rupees was stolen from her checked‑in baggage during an international journey.

The complainant, Shanta Ramesh Kashinkunti, originally from Dharwad and currently residing in the United States, frequently visits her native Hubballi–Dharwad. She had booked a return ticket to the US and travelled on Akasa Airlines on November 15, 2025, departing from Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), Bengaluru, with a scheduled transit halt at Abu Dhabi.

According to her complaint, the baggage contained around 790 grams of gold jewellery, diamond ornaments valued at approximately ₹8 lakh, medicines worth ₹20,000, and USD 200 in cash. After completing all check‑in formalities, baggage tagging, and security screening at Bengaluru airport, she continued her journey.

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On arrival at Abu Dhabi International Airport, she inspected her luggage and allegedly found the valuables missing. The suitcase showed no visible signs of tampering, but the contents had disappeared. She immediately reported the matter to Abu Dhabi airport authorities and also contacted Akasa Airlines’ customer service. Despite repeated follow‑ups, she claimed that no satisfactory response or resolution was provided.

After returning to India on January 7, 2026, Kashinkunti approached the police on the advice of her relatives. She requested a thorough investigation, including examination of CCTV footage at Kempegowda International Airport, questioning of security staff, and coordination with Abu Dhabi authorities to trace the missing valuables.

Based on her formal complaint filed on January 31, 2026, the airport police registered a case of theft against unknown persons. The investigation is now underway to determine how the valuables went missing and to identify those responsible.

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