Dindoshi police have arrested a former cook, Chhote Bahaku Mukhiya (32), accused of stealing jewelry worth Rs 15 lakh from the residence of an international cargo businessman based in Malad East. Mukhiya allegedly committed the theft to fund a party for his friends.
The complainant, who lives in Upper Govind Nagar with his family, had employed six domestic workers including Mukhiya, who worked as a full-time cook for about a month before resigning. The family was away visiting the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya from May 28 to May 31.
Upon returning, the complainant’s mother found that the jewelry kept in her bedroom’s cupboard safe was missing. After confirming with family members and staff, the complainant filed a complaint with Dindoshi police on the same day.
An investigation led by Senior Inspector Ajay Aphale and his team utilized CCTV footage from the building and surrounding areas to identify Mukhiya as the suspect. The accused had fled to Delhi but was traced to Lajpat Nagar and arrested.
During interrogation, Mukhiya admitted to the crime, revealing that he was addicted to alcohol and stole the valuables to host a party since he was unemployed and had no money. He knew the house layout and returned on the night of May 28, entering through the terrace and stealing the jewelry before fleeing to Delhi.
Mukhiya remains in police custody as efforts continue to recover the stolen items.
