Tamil Nadu: Trio suspected of emerald Murugan idol theft held

CHENNAI: The Chengalpattu police have recovered a stolen Maragatha Balamurugan Thandayuthapani Swamy idol and arrested three people hailing from Ariyalur in connection with the burglary at a temple near Madurantakam.

On the night of September 1, the two-and-a-half-foot emerald idol and silver articles were stolen from the Nadupalani Balamurugan Maragatha Thandayuthapani temple in Perungaranai village, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Sithamur police station.

The police registered a case and tasked a special team comprising six inspectors to retrieve the stolen idol and articles. The team was formed under the supervision of Chengalpattu Superintendent of Police Ayman Jamal Iqbal and Madurantakam Deputy Superintendent of Police Deepak Rajini.

As part of the investigation, the police examined footage from more than 100 CCTV cameras and questioned over 20 previous offenders suspected of involvement in similar crimes. Based on the evidence gathered, the suspects were identified.

On Sunday, the Sithamur police, led by Inspector Mahalingam, arrested three accused and recovered the stolen idol. The idol was kept in the office of the RDO, Cheyyur. The three suspects are expected to be produced in court on Monday.

Further investigation and legal proceedings are continuing.