Pramesh S Jain
Officials in Vijayapura district have arrested two men in connection with a sensational daylight armed robbery at a jewellery shop in Halasangi village and recovered the entire stolen property worth Rs.22 lakh.
The robbery took place on January 26 at around 3.30 pm at “Bhoomika Jewellery”in Halasangi village under the jurisdiction of Zalaki Police Station.
Two accused persons,who had concealed their identities by covering their faces with black cloth and wearing helmets,entered the shop owned by Maharudra S/o Sadashiv Kanchagar.
Senior officer told reporters that the accused arrived on a black Honda Unicorn motorcycle.After brandishing a pistol and threatening the shop owner,they robbed 205 grams of gold ornaments and 1 kilogram of silver ornaments,collectively valued at approximately Rs.22 lakh.
While fleeing from the scene,the accused allegedly fired at members of the public standing near the shop, causing injuries, before escaping on their motorcycle.
Based on the complaint lodged by the shop owner,a case was registered on January 26 under Section 311 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita,2023,and Sections 25 and 27 of the Arms Act,1959.
Given the gravity of the offence and the use of firearms in a public place,the case was taken up on priority.
Under the supervision of the Additional Superintendent of Police,two special teams were formed,led by DySP Sadashiv Kattimani of Indi Sub-Division and DySP Sunil Kamble of CEN Police Station,along with officers from Chadachan,Zalaki and Horti police stations,supported by crime and technical staff.
During the course of investigation,police traced and arrested the accused:
Hanamant S/o Mallappa Waghole (28),a dairy businessman from Sankh village in Jath taluk of Maharashtra,presently residing in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune.
Shivaraj alias Gaudappa S/o Rausaheb Navi (28),a driver by profession,also from Sankh village in Jath taluk, Maharashtra,currently residing in Nigdi,Pune.
Police said the accused confessed to the crime during interrogation.
The following items were recovered and seized from them:
205 grams of gold ornaments,1 kilogram of silver ornaments valued at approximately Rs.22 lakh,Three country-made pistols,including the weapon allegedly used in the offence.
26 live cartridges,One air gun,The Honda Unicorn motorcycle used in the robbery,Masks, jacket,helmet, gloves and clothes worn during the crime.
Superintendent of Police,Laxman Nimbargi,IPS,said the accused were traced and arrested within 20 days of the incident through sustained efforts, technical analysis and coordinated fieldwork.
In recognition of their commendable work,individual commendation certificates have been awarded to all officers and staff involved in the investigation.
