Bhubaneswar, Oct 22: Theft incidents have surged across the Odisha capital during the Durga Puja festivities, with thieves allegedly stealing 190 mobile phones and 21 gold chains from various puja pandals over the past three days. Reports suggest that the highest number of thefts occurred on a single day yesterday.

Following complaints from devotees, the Commissionerate Police has launched an investigation to identify and arrest those involved. Police teams from Khandagiri, Nayapalli, Chandrasekharpur, Mancheswar, Laxmisagar and Shree Lingaraj police stations have reportedly detained several suspects for questioning. Some stolen mobile phones have also been recovered from their possession.

Thieves target crowded Puja Pandals

According to reports, gangs of thieves from different states have arrived in Bhubaneswar during the festive season to target crowded puja pandals. Despite extensive security arrangements, the miscreants allegedly took advantage of the heavy rush to steal valuables from devotees.

On the directions of the Commissionerate Police, additional CCTV cameras were installed at several puja pandals across the city. Plainclothes personnel and women police officers were also deployed, while puja committees engaged volunteers to assist with security and crowd management.

However, these measures have failed to prevent a series of thefts during the festivities.

Six major pandals report frequent thefts

The highest number of reported thefts occurred at puja pandals in Baramunda, Nayapalli, Saheed Nagar, Rasulgarh, Cuttack Road and Jharpada, where devotees reported losing mobile phones and gold chains.

Police have detained some suspected thieves and recovered a number of stolen mobile phones. Investigations are underway to establish the suspects' involvement and trace the remaining stolen valuables.

The Commissionerate Police is continuing its efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the thefts as the investigation progresses.