Kawardha, Chhattisgarh: The Kabirdham Police have successfully cracked the Baba Vishweshwar Mahadev Temple theft case, arresting two accused while launching a search for a third suspect who remains on the run. The breakthrough comes just ahead of the Shravan (Sawan) month, a period of immense religious significance for devotees of Lord Shiva.
According to police, the theft took place during the night of July 4–5, 2026, at the Baba Vishweshwar Mahadev Temple located in Silhati village of Kabirdham district.
Temple Broken Into During the Night
The complaint was filed by Rohit Kumar Chandravanshi, who reported that unidentified individuals broke open the temple door and stole several silver religious ornaments. The stolen items included the silver Trikund installed on the Shivling and the silver crown adorning the idol of Goddess Gauri.
Police said the stolen valuables weighed approximately 20 tolas and were valued at around ₹35,000.
CCTV Footage and Mobile Tracking Led to Arrests
Investigators examined the crime scene, recorded statements from witnesses, analyzed CCTV footage, and traced mobile phone locations to identify the suspects.
Based on the technical evidence, police detained and questioned Manjeet Purle and Sunil Goswami. During interrogation, both allegedly confessed to committing the crime along with their associate, Ashwini Ahire.
According to the investigation, Ashwini Ahire entered the temple and carried out the theft, while Manjeet Purle and Sunil Goswami remained outside, acting as lookouts.
Motorcycle, Cash, and Mobile Phones Seized
Police recovered several items from the arrested suspects, including mobile phones, cash, and the motorcycle (Registration No. CG 28 V 1888) allegedly used in the commission of the crime.
The arrested accused have been identified as:
- Manjeet Purle, a resident of Deori, Mungeli district
- Sunil Goswami, also a resident of Mungeli district
Search Underway for Third Accused
Police said that Ashwini Ahire, the third accused in the case, is currently absconding, and efforts are underway to locate and arrest him. Authorities are also continuing the search for the remaining stolen silver ornaments taken from the temple.
The successful investigation highlights the role of CCTV surveillance, mobile location analysis, and technical evidence in solving the case. Police have assured that further action will continue until the absconding accused is arrested and all the stolen property is recovered.
