Major Daylight Burglary in Varanasi

VARANASI: In a bold daylight burglary that has sparked serious security concerns, unidentified thieves broke into the house of a retired teacher in Varanasi’s Shivpur police station area and escaped with cash and jewellery worth nearly ₹20 lakh. The incident occurred in Shri Krishnapuram Colony, Dadupur Chandmari, an area located close to the residence of Cabinet Minister Anil Rajbhar.

The Incident

The victim has been identified as Nandlal Upadhyay, a retired teacher. According to police, the family had left their house on January 10 to attend the Tehravin (13th-day ritual) of a relative in their ancestral village. Taking advantage of the vacant house, the burglars allegedly broke the main gate locks and carried out the theft.

The burglary came to light when the victim’s brother, Virendra Upadhyay, noticed broken locks on the main gate and alerted the family. Upon returning home, Nandlal Upadhyay found the house in complete disarray, with cupboards and lockers broken open.

Loot Details

As per the complaint lodged with the police, the thieves decamped with:

₹50,000 in cash

Gold jewellery: 4 chains, 10 rings, 1 necklace, 1 mangalsutra

Ornaments: 6 earrings, 2 maang tikkas, 2 nose rings

Silver items: Anklets and household utensils

The stolen valuables reportedly belonged to the victim’s wife, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter.

Police Action

After receiving information via Dial 112, teams from Shivpur Police Station and the forensic unit reached the spot to collect evidence. Inspector Virendra Sonkar said that CCTV footage from nearby areas is being examined to identify and trace the accused.

Local Anger Over Security

The incident has triggered anger among local residents, who alleged a lack of regular police patrolling in the area. Locals claim that incidents of theft have been increasing in recent months, raising concerns about safety even in high-profile localities close to ministerial residences.

Police have assured that the case is being investigated seriously and that the culprits will be arrested soon.