Patancheru Police arrest repeat offender for temple theft, recover silver ornaments

Hyderabad: Patancheru Police arrested a habitual offender involved in a temple theft case and remanded him to judicial custody, police said.

The theft occurred on January 6 at the Sri Bhramarambika Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple. Specifically, the temple is located along the Pocharam ORR service road in the Muthangi division under Cyberabad limits.

An unidentified person stole crowns and garlands from the temple. Following the incident, police registered a case and launched an investigation.

During the probe, officers spotted a man moving suspiciously near gold shops in the Patancheru market on Friday. At that time, he was riding a scooter. Therefore, the police detained him for questioning.

After verification, police identified the suspect as Dandu Ravi. Notably, he is a resident of Golla Basti in Patancheru and a known repeat offender.

Accused admits role in temple theft

During interrogation, the accused confessed to committing the temple theft, police said. Subsequently, he revealed that he had stolen a scooter from the Ramachandrapuram Bombay Colony area.

He used the stolen vehicle to reach the temple. According to police, the accused committed the theft to raise money for personal expenses.

Police recovered about five kilograms of silver ornaments from him. In addition, they seized a motorcycle during the operation.

Officials said the accused has a long criminal record. In fact, more than 30 theft cases are registered against him. These cases fall under Ramachandrapuram, Chevella, Hatnoor, and Patancheru police station limits.

Meanwhile, further investigation is underway.