A pair of alleged temple thieves in Gujarat has been arrested for using Google Maps to identify remote religious sites, highlighting how everyday technology is increasingly being misused for criminal activity.

The arrests were made after a burglary at the Khodiyar Mata and Ramapir temples in Moti Hamirpar village, where jewellery worth Rs 1,10,150 was stolen. Police said they were able to crack the case within days of the incident.

Tip-Off Leads To Arrest And Recovery

The accused have been identified as Panchabhai Koli from Gedi and Javed Ghanchi from Umaiya. They were intercepted by police while allegedly on their way to Radhanpur to dispose of the stolen items.

Acting on specific intelligence, officers stopped the duo and recovered jewellery, cash, and mobile phones from their possession. Officials said the swift action not only solved the initial case but also linked the accused to multiple thefts in the region.

Google Maps Used To Identify Targets

During interrogation, police found that Ghanchi was skilled in using mobile technology and had been scanning Google Maps to locate temples situated in relatively isolated areas.

Once a potential target was identified, the duo would travel on foot during the night to avoid detection. They would then break open locks using a sharp iron tool, commonly used for cutting coconuts, and steal valuables from within the premises.

The method allowed them to target temples that lacked robust security, making them vulnerable to theft.

Multiple Cases Solved

Police said the arrests have helped solve several cases, including a theft reported at a temple in Selari. The investigation revealed a pattern of similar crimes carried out using the same approach.

Authorities have recovered a range of stolen items, including 14 silver umbrellas, a silver-like metal snake, cash, and mobile phones. The total value of the recovered property is estimated at around Rs 10 lakh, in addition to Rs 2,28,160 in cash.

Further Probe Underway

Officials confirmed that multiple cases have been registered against the accused, with three cases filed against Javed Ghanchi and two against Panchabhai Koli under various sections of the law.

The police are now probing the extent of the network and whether the accused were part of a larger organised group involved in similar thefts.

The case underscores how digital tools like Google Maps, while designed for convenience, can be exploited for criminal purposes, prompting authorities to remain vigilant against evolving methods of crime.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share