Pandariya, Chhattisgarh: Pandariya police have arrested a suspect in connection with the theft of ₹4.10 lakh in cash from Punjab Agency Agriculture Centre in Kabirdham district. Police said they recovered a substantial portion of the stolen money, along with silver jewellery allegedly purchased using the proceeds of the theft. A motorcycle, mobile phone and iron crowbar believed to have been used in the crime were also seized.
₹4.10 Lakh Stolen from Agency Counter
According to the complaint filed by Amrik Singh Saluja, the owner of Punjab Agency Agriculture Centre, the theft took place during the night of October 14–15. The accused allegedly broke into the establishment and stole ₹4.10 lakh in cash kept in a drawer at the counter.
After discovering the missing money, the agency management approached Pandariya police and lodged a complaint. Police subsequently launched an investigation and examined CCTV footage from cameras installed in and around the area to identify those involved.
CCTV Footage Helped Police in Investigation
Pandariya police examined footage from multiple CCTV cameras and questioned two people suspected of involvement in the incident. According to Superintendent of Police Jitendra Kumar Yadav, the suspects admitted their involvement during questioning, following which arrests were made.
The police investigation identified Nandram Shrivas, 37, a resident of Ghontha village under Pandatarai police station limits in Kabirdham district, as an accused in the case.
Police said approximately ₹3 lakh was recovered from the accused. The remaining amount had reportedly been spent, including money used to purchase silver jewellery.
Silver Jewellery and Other Items Seized
Superintendent of Police Jitendra Kumar Yadav said the police seized the silver ornaments allegedly purchased with the stolen money. A motorcycle, mobile phone and iron crowbar suspected to have been used in the burglary were also taken into custody as part of the investigation.
According to the police, around ₹1.49 lakh of the stolen amount had been spent, while the remaining recoverable cash was seized.
Police said the investigation was initiated immediately after the complaint was registered, with CCTV footage playing an important role in tracing the suspects.
Police Statement: Superintendent of Police Jitendra Kumar Yadav said that the suspects were taken into custody after investigators examined CCTV footage and questioned them. Police subsequently made arrests and recovered cash and other items connected with the case.
