A 32-year-old cook, Chotu Mukhiya, previously employed by Malad businessman Gaurav Guwalewala, was arrested for stealing gold and diamond jewelry valued at Rs 75.07 lakh from his employer’s bungalow just 12 days after resigning on May 17.
The Dindoshi police tracked Mukhiya to Darbhanga, Bihar, and recovered Rs 72.57 lakh worth of stolen jewelry from his wife’s possession at their Goregaon residence. Investigations revealed Mukhiya committed the theft to settle Rs 1.5 lakh in debts owed to individuals in Darbhanga.
Mukhiya had joined Guwalewala’s household as a cook on April 19 but stopped working from May 2, despite being paid for 12 days in April. He became unresponsive to his employer’s attempts to communicate and did not return to collect his remaining salary. Police suspect he took the job to familiarize himself with the house and its routine.
On May 28, while the family was away on a trip to Ayodhya, Mukhiya broke into a cupboard locker and stole the valuables. The crime came to light on May 31 when Guwalewala’s mother discovered the damaged cupboard.
Police continue to investigate the case as Mukhiya faces charges for the burglary and theft.
