Thieves used Google Maps to target temples, nabbed by Abdullapurmet police

Abdullapurmet: A gang of thieves adopted a novel strategy to commit burglaries at temples in Hyderabad. They would use Google Maps to search and identify temples in specific locations where idols were adorned with gold and silver ornaments. Later, the gang would devise a foolproof plan to loot the gold ornaments and other valuables from the temples without getting caught.

Two suspects involved in multiple thefts across Ghatkesar, Dundigal, Bibinagar, Ibrahimpatnam, and Jawaharnagar police station limits were finally nabbed by Abdullapurmet police during a vehicle check.

According to CI Anji Reddy, the suspects were apprehended early Tuesday near the Outer Ring Road. While conducting a routine vehicle inspection, the policemen noticed two persons on a two-wheeler behaving suspiciously.

They stopped the bike and upon searching their bag, they found 20 kg of silver metal in it. The police seized the bag containing 20 kg of silver along with their two-wheeler. Subsequently, the suspects were taken into custody.

The duo has been identified as Mohammed Intiyaz Sharif, a resident of police quarters in Medchal, and Ranga Venu of Nawabpet village, Shivampet mandal, Medak district.

During interrogation, the duo confessed to their crimes and said they resorted to criminal activities to lead a lavish lifestyle. Their modus operandi was to use Google Maps to target temples in secluded places. After stealing gold and silver ornaments, they melted the metal into biscuit form and sold it in Vijayawada.

Recently, they committed a burglary at the Abhayanjaneya Swamy temple in Piglipur village. They stole silver ornaments from the temple and were on their way to sell them when they were caught by the police. They admitted to committing similar thefts at temples under the jurisdiction of various police stations.

The police have registered a case and remanded the suspects into custody.