Patna, Jan 21 (IANS) Criminal activity continues unabated in Bihar, with thieves now targeting high-value commercial establishments in busy urban areas.

In a daring incident, thieves looted jewellery worth nearly Rs 26.9 lakh from a shop located in the upscale New Market area of Katihar, under the jurisdiction of the Town police station, defying night police patrols.

According to the police, the theft took place around 2 a.m. on Wednesday. The miscreants broke the lock of Verma Jewelers and decamped with approximately 8 kilograms of silver, 16 grams of gold ornaments, and 3.7 grams of pure gold.

The total value of the stolen items is estimated to be around ₹26.9 lakh.

The criminals did not stop there. They also targeted Gaurav Vastralaya, a garment shop located adjacent to the jewellery store, breaking the main gate lock and committing another theft.

The incident came to light on Wednesday morning when shopkeepers noticed the broken shutters. Panic spread in the market, following which the police were immediately informed.

A team from the Town police station reached the spot and initiated an investigation.

Confirming the incident, Katihar Superintendent of Police (SP) Shikhar Choudhary said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted under the supervision of SDPO Sadar-1.

The district police are reviewing CCTV footage from the area. This major theft in what is considered one of the safest areas of the city has raised serious security concerns.

Taking strict action, SP Choudhary also confirmed that two police personnel deployed for night patrolling have been suspended with immediate effect.

“They were assigned night patrol duty but were not present in the area and had failed to inform the Town Police Station SHO about their absence. They have been suspended on charges of negligence,” he said.

The affected jewellery shop owner, Shivam Kumar Verm, said that despite the area being one of the busiest commercial zones in Katihar, the theft occurred unchecked.

Following the incident, local traders and residents have demanded a thorough investigation, arrest of the accused, and enhanced night patrolling to prevent such crimes in the future.

–IANS

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