Inter-state temple theft gang busted, stolen ornaments worth ₹26 lakh recovered
Hyderabad: Police in Kukatpally zone busted an inter-state temple theft gang and recovered stolen ornaments worth ₹26 lakh, following a burglary at the Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple in KPHB Colony.
The Central Crime Station (CCS) Kukatpally, with assistance from Law and Order Police at KPHB, arrested five accused and identified two others who remain absconding. The operation followed a complaint lodged by temple manager Kandula Maruthi on January 7, reporting the theft that occurred during the intervening night of January 6–7.
Investigation used extensive CCTV footage and criminal profiling
The case was registered under Cr.No. 38/2026, invoking relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Special teams, under senior police supervision, examined over 200 CCTV cameras across entry and exit routes. Technical surveillance, analysis of criminal databases, and modus operandi comparisons led to the identification of the gang.
Accused and criminal history
- Neelapu Neelaiah alias Anil (Absconding) – A habitual offender involved in 15 previous theft and robbery cases across Medchal, Shamirpet, and other police limits.
- Maharaju Mallikarjun – Arrested
- Bashya Venkat Mohith Kumar (Absconding) – Previously involved in a narcotics case
- Dunnapothula Pawan Kalyan alias Kalyan – Arrested
- Dandi Anil Teja – Arrested
- Kambapu Vijay – Arrested
- Thangila Manikanta Durga Prasad alias Akhil – Arrested
According to police, Neelaiah and Mallikarjun conspired to target temples and involved the others to execute the theft and dispose of the stolen property.
Recovered property includes gold, silver, and copper ornaments
Police recovered gold, silver, and copper temple ornaments worth ₹26 lakh, along with a two-wheeler and five smartphones used during the operation.
The investigation was led by DCP Kukatpally Zone Ritiraj IPS, DCP Crimes Muthyam Reddy, Addl. DCP K. Ramkumar, ACP Nageshwaro Rao, ACP E. Ravi Kiran Reddy, SHO S. Rajashekar Reddy, Inspector A. Ravikumar, and CCS staff. Commendations and rewards have been announced for the team’s efforts.