Gold heist in Bengaluru: 18.4 Kg jewels and Rs 40 lakh cash stolen

In a major burglary, gold jewelry weighing 18.4 kg and Rs 40 lakh in cash were stolen from a house in Hosahalli, Vijayanagar, Bengaluru, on November 7. The cumulative value of the stolen items is estimated at Rs 15 crore. The house belongs to Surendra Kumar, the proprietor of Arihant Jewellery.

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Kumar has accused Namraz, a Nepali national employed at his shop, of orchestrating the theft. Namraz was one of six employees working at Arihant Jewellery and was also trusted with tasks at Kumar's residence. The jeweller, who had been away in Gujarat since November 1, believes the theft occurred during his absence.

Upon returning and discovering the theft, Kumar reported the incident, leading to an immediate investigation by the Vijayanagar police. Authorities have launched a manhunt for Namraz, who is currently absconding. Police are exploring the possibility of accomplices, given the scale of the theft and the suspect's familiarity with the jeweller’s household and business operations.

The incident has triggered concerns within the local community and among Bengaluru's jewelers, who fear similar breaches of trust. Police are scrutinizing leads to track his whereabouts. The investigation continues as officials intensify efforts to recover the stolen assets.