Bhopal/Shivpuri: In a daring, interesting and shocking heist that has raised serious questions about heritage security, a group of 25 to 30 armed miscreants stole a priceless 500-year-old Ashtadhatu cannon also known as “Tope” in Hindi, from the historic Narwar Fort in Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh.
The incident, which occurred between the nights of July 15 and 16, has sent shockwaves through the state’s cultural and police circles, with investigators suspecting the hand of an international gang of antique smugglers.
The massive cannon, weighing approximately 3,000 kg and dating back to the Scindia dynasty, was one of 14 historic cannons displayed in the fort’s open Kachhari (court) complex.
“Under the cover of darkness, the miscreants executed a meticulously planned operation. They entered the fort through a rear route, fully prepared with loading vehicles, including cranes and trucks to transport the heavy artefact,” Prashant Sharma, sub-divisional police officer Karaira, told IANS.
He, however, refused to subscribe to the news that is in the air that the criminals overpowered the security personnel by brandishing modern weapons and threatening them with death if they resisted. “The guard might not be on duty. Had he informed the police immediately, the incident might not have occurred,” the official said.
Outnumbered and outgunned, the guard told the police he could do little as the thieves made off with the valuable cannon, leaving only 13 behind. Security guard Balkishan, who was on duty during the incident, recounted the terrifying experience. He told a section of the media that a large group of armed individuals suddenly descended upon the site from nowhere; they carried sophisticated firearms, the security staff were equipped with nothing more than traditional “lathis.”
The area suffered from insufficient lighting, and basic equipment like torches was unavailable, making it impossible to mount any effective resistance. Fearing for his life, Balkishan said he had no choice but to retreat. What has intensified criticism of the authorities is the fact that suspicious activities had been reported around the fort about 12 days prior to the theft.
However, police have not subscribed to these tales.
The Ashtadhatu cannon, crafted from an alloy of eight metals, held immense historical and cultural significance. Its theft represents not just a loss of a valuable artefact but also a blow to the state’s rich heritage.
“We have launched a detailed investigation and are working on leads that point towards a well-organised international smuggling network. Teams are examining CCTV footage, vehicle movements, and possible local connections that may have facilitated the operation. The miscreants will soon be apprehended,” the official further said.
(IANS)
