Ganjam: In a shocking incident, unidentified thieves broke into a Hanuman temple in Kumarbegapalli village under Chhatrapur police station limits in Ganjam district and stole gold and silver ornaments valued at more than Rs 50 lakh.
As per reports, the theft took place late on Tuesday night, reportedly around 1 am. The miscreants broke open the temple lock and entered the sanctum. The priest had locked the temple after completing the evening rituals on Tuesday. When he returned early Wednesday morning, he discovered the broken lock and found the valuables missing.
According to reports, the thieves took away gold ornaments belonging to the Hanuman idol, including the gold eyes and the gold ‘Chita’. They also stole silver items such as the gada (mace) and other ornaments of the deities. The temple’s donation box was also taken away.
Upon being informed, Chhatrapur police rushed to the spot and have initiated an investigation. They are examining CCTV footage from the temple premises and nearby cameras along the main road. The suspects were seen with their faces covered.
The incident has caused widespread concern among local residents and has raised serious questions about the security of religious sites in the area.
