Temple Bell Heist: A Tale of Theft and Recovery

The Uttar Pradesh Police arrested seven individuals involved in a gang stealing brass bells from temples. Over 100 bells and illegal weapons were recovered. The gang, active in multiple districts, was dismantled after a strategic police operation. Legal proceedings are underway against the suspects.

The Uttar Pradesh Police have successfully apprehended seven members of a gang notorious for stealing brass bells from temples across the region. More than 100 stolen bells, along with illegal weapons, were recovered during the operation, officials confirmed on Saturday.

Initial arrests of key suspects Hammu and Taj Mohammad were made on Thursday following an encounter. Subsequent interrogations led to the capture of additional accomplices, Sagir, Nazim, Dildar, Rajuddin, and Ali, on Saturday. Police noted the gang's involvement in numerous temple bell thefts in Bulandshahr and neighboring districts Hathras and Aligarh.

According to Superintendent of Police (Rural) Tejveer Singh, concerted efforts led to the discovery of 96 brass bells weighing 125 kg, a brass ingot, a pistol, and other illegal weaponry. Known for their extensive criminal records, the accused now face legal proceedings at the Dibai police station.

(With inputs from agencies.)