Three individuals have been detained in connection with thefts that occurred at two temples in Lucknow, according to police sources. The suspects are reported to have conducted surveillance of the temple premises during daylight hours. Subsequently, they executed their thefts at night, having previously disabled the CCTV camera digital video recorders.

The detained individuals have been identified as Rizwan, Mohammad Adil, and Vijay Maurya, who is also known as Natu. According to the authorities, this trio was allegedly involved in thefts at the Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple located in Mahanagar and the Peepaleshwar Mahadev Temple situated in Shivani Vihar. Police stated that the suspects confessed during interrogation.

Furthermore, two additional individuals, Ramzad Naushad and Saddam, have been linked to the criminal activities. The group reportedly stole a silver crown and silver canopy from the Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple, near the Khatu Shyam Temple, before proceeding to acquire cash and ornaments from the Peepaleshwar Mahadev Temple.

Recovery of Stolen Goods

In the course of their investigation, police reported that they recovered Rs 34,000 in cash along with 196 grams of white metal from the arrested individuals. Additionally, authorities seized various large brass items, including a trident and two maces of differing sizes, which were allegedly used in the commission of the crimes.

Several iron tools believed to have been employed during the thefts were also retrieved by the police along with a stolen Super Splendour motorcycle that bore the registration number UP40 AK 4867. Following these events, cases concerning the temple thefts have been officially registered against the detained suspects at both Mahanagar and Gudamba police stations.

Authorities continue to investigate the situation, aiming to identify further members of the alleged criminal group and to ascertain whether they have any involvement in related theft cases within the locality.

Criminal Background of One Suspect

The police disclosed that Rizwan, son of Basu, is not a first-time offender; he has 13 previous cases registered against him across Bahraich and Lucknow. These cases include various charges, such as theft, violations stipulated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, as well as the Gangsters Act.

With Rizwan’s extensive history of criminal activity, authorities are keen to investigate whether he possesses connections to a larger network engaged in similar crimes. The implications of this arrest may extend beyond these specific incidents, potentially leading to further apprehensions.

The ongoing inquiry reflects the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat thefts at places of worship, which have been a growing concern in urban areas. Police efforts aim to ensure these sacred sites remain protected from criminal activity.

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