The Kanjurmarg Police have arrested 38-year-old habitual offender Atish Sakharkar in connection with a housebreaking incident at a senior citizen’s residence in Bhandup East earlier this month.
Sakharkar, a resident of Virar, has more than 20 housebreaking cases registered against him. Investigators said his distinctive method of operation helped them link him to the recent burglary.
Silent Break-In on February 8
The burglary occurred on the night of February 8, with a First Information Report (FIR) filed the next morning. According to police, the accused gained entry by carefully cutting and bending the metal window grill using a handsaw — a technique he is known to use to avoid making noise and drawing attention.
Gold jewellery valued at over Rs3.7 lakh was reported stolen. The stolen items included two gold bangles, a mangalsutra with a diamond pendant, four gold rings, chains, earrings, and a diamond earring set.
During the investigation, authorities recovered jewellery worth approximately Rs2.7 lakh from the accused.
Investigation and Arrest
Police officials noted that the crime bore striking similarities to previous break-ins attributed to Sakharkar. Surveillance on known repeat offenders was intensified, and a confidential informant provided key information about his location.
Acting on the tip-off, officers traced Sakharkar to the Mira-Bhayandar area, where he was taken into custody.
Investigators revealed that Sakharkar is skilled at avoiding CCTV cameras and typically carries tools such as a handsaw to swiftly and quietly cut through window grills. His calculated approach had enabled him to evade law enforcement in several past cases.
Authorities are continuing further investigation into the matter.
