HYDERABAD: In a case that proves nothing is beyond the reach of thieves, a well-organised saree theft gang has been busted in Hyderabad’s Miyapur area. The gang, consisting of professional robbers, made a living by stealing sarees from shops across various cities.
According to ACP Srinivas Kumar, the gang comprises 50 to 60 individuals hailing from Krishna district, who have formed a network that strategically targets textile shops. While some members operate solo in selected cities, larger teams of five or six are deployed to metropolitan areas to maximise their loot.
These thieves are no amateurs. Their method is systematic – they conduct reconnaissance a day in advance, identifying shops that are either overcrowded or understaffed. Once inside, the gang members engage the owner and workers in casual conversation to divert their attention while others swiftly pack and conceal expensive sarees before walking out undetected.
The racket was exposed on Saturday when police in Miyapur arrested seven members of the gang. The arrested individuals were later remanded to custody.
ACP Srinivas revealed that each gang member is facing between 10 to 15 cases, underscoring their deep involvement in serial theft. Multiple cases have already been registered against them at Miyapur, KPHB, Madhura Nagar, and Saifabad police stations in Hyderabad.
Police stated that the group treats saree theft as a full-time profession, selling the stolen garments to make a living. Authorities are continuing investigations to trace other members of the gang and recover stolen property.
This unusual yet highly organised criminal operation has sparked concern among local textile shop owners, who are now being advised to increase security and remain vigilant.
