Antique idol theft racket busted in Odisha; 3 brothers arrested

In a major breakthrough, the police busted an antique idol theft racket and recovered more than 50 idols in Jagatsinghpur. Moreover, three brothers have also been arrested for their alleged involvement in the case.

While the Balipatna police of Khordha district arrested two siblings- Barada Prasanna Acharya and Annada Prasanna Acharya on Friday,  the Jagatsinghpur Sadar Police arrested their elder brother Sarada Acharya from Chandhei village on Saturday.

Following their arrest, the police with the help of locals exhumed more than 50 antique idols made up of different metals, brass cobra idols and other items of temples buried beneath their house.

According to sources, the trio used to steal valuables from temples in Cuttack, Khordha, Jagatsinghpur and Puri.

Sharing details about their modus operandi, Bhubaneswar DCP Pinak Mishra said, “They used to steal at temples. They will be brought on remand to ascertain whether it is an organised crime or their involvement in other crimes.”

“The investigation into the matter is on and we are hopeful that the number of idols will increase. A team, headed by Jagatsinghpur IIC and SDPO was formed to probe the case. The team first arrested Barada Acharya and later arrested two of his brothers,” said Jagatsinghpur SP, Bhabani Shankar Udgata.

“During the investigation, the accused siblings have confessed that they buried the idols beneath their house. Subsequently, the idols were exhumed. Those who have bought the idols from the accused will also face legal action,” Udgata added.