Bhubaneswar, Jan 12: Niranjan Swain (49) alias Nanda, a notorious thief known as the “Champion Thief,” has been arrested by Commissionerate Police, along with his accomplice Munmuna Pradhan (26) from Lakshmisagar. Both were taken into custody by Dhauli Thana police, and an auto rickshaw, a blanket, 15 silver coins, and other items were recovered from them.
Police Commissioner Dr. S. Dev Datta Singh said in a press conference that the arrests follow a theft on January 7 at Sandhyarani Pattnayak’s residence in Apsana Garden, Dhauli Thana. The burglars had broken into the house at night, stealing gold and silver jewelry along with ₹20,000 in cash. CCTV footage helped the police track the auto rickshaw used in the crime, leading to the arrest of Munmuna first and then Nanda.
Nanda has a long criminal history spanning over 19 years, with 78 cases registered in various police stations across the capital. Despite repeated arrests and jail terms, he would resume his criminal activities upon release.
The police have registered Nanda under the National Security Act (NSA). Both Nanda and Munmuna appeared in court, and their bail was denied. They have been sent to jail.
