The Byadarahalli police on Monday arrested Shiva (35), a habitual offender linked to at least 11 house break-ins across Bengaluru. Shiva, along with his associates Jagga (35) and Vivek (30), was apprehended following a lead from CCTV footage related to a recent gold theft case.
A police investigation revealed that Shiva used the stolen funds primarily for personal vices, although his parents claimed he had also helped a friend by paying school fees for the friend’s child.
Shiva, who has multiple cases registered at Begur, Indiranagar, and Jeevan Bheema Nagar police stations, reportedly used an autorickshaw purchased with stolen money to scout for locked homes in residential areas. Once identified, he would break in and steal gold and valuables, which were then sold in Thiruvali, Tamil Nadu.
The stolen ornaments amounted to 260 grams, valued at around Rs22 lakh, with 250 grams recovered during his arrest.
A senior officer commented, “The accused is trying to win sympathy by claiming good deeds with stolen money. But like habitual offenders who donate to temples, such acts don’t justify the crimes committed.”
Authorities are currently verifying Shiva’s full criminal background, while further investigations continue into his associates and fencing network.
