The Goa Police have arrested Anant alias Akshya Mhadeshwar, a resident of Kudal, Maharashtra, for breaking into a house in Merces and stealing gold ornaments valued at Rs 10 lakh. The accused is a habitual offender, involved in four other theft cases across Goa and Maharashtra.
The victim, Pooja Rajendra Mangaonkar (56), a housewife from Perimbhat, Merces, reported that on August 29, an unknown intruder broke into her flat between 4 PM and 2:15 AM, stealing gold and silver jewelry. Stolen items included a 30g gold coin, a 2g pair of earrings, a 40g mangalsutra, and two pairs of bangles weighing 40g, among other ornaments.
The Old Goa Police Station, led by PSI Saiesh Bhonsle, registered the case and conducted a panchanama at the crime scene. CCTV footage analysis revealed a suspicious person on a scooter, prompting police to form a search team. The accused was traced and apprehended in Merces.
During questioning, Mhadeshwar confessed to the theft. A check in the Interoperable Criminal Justice System revealed his prior involvement in similar cases in Goa and Maharashtra, confirming his status as a habitual offender.
The stolen gold has been recovered, and the accused is under police custody for further investigation.
