Crafty Charade: Fraudster's Jewelry Heist Foiled

An elderly cobbler and woman were tricked by Karthik, a swindler who posed as a helper. He stole their jewelry using distraction tactics. Police arrested him after uncovering his involvement in similar thefts. 24.5 grams of gold was recovered and Karthik was taken into custody.

An elderly cobbler and a woman fell victim to a cunning jewelry thief in Otteri. On November 25, Balan, 66, was deceived by Karthik after the latter helped him up from a fall, only to steal his gold ring. The following day, Karthik also tricked Selvi, 65, into surrendering her jewelry under false pretenses.

The police registered cases for both incidents and discovered Karthik's pattern of similar crimes in Madhavaram and Integral Coach Factory (ICF) areas. The mode of operation involved diverting attention and snatching jewelry.

Authorities recovered 24.5 grams of gold and seized the two-wheeler used in the offenses. Karthik has since been arrested, appearing in court on November 28, and was remanded into judicial custody.

(With inputs from agencies.)