Rayagada, August 27: In a major crackdown on a suspected jewellery theft racket, Balangir Police conducted raids at multiple locations in Rayagada district and recovered a large quantity of gold and silver ornaments allegedly stolen from jewellery shops, homes and temples across Balangir, Kalahandi and Rayagada districts.

The raids were carried out on Wednesday in collaboration with local police at the residences of Harishchandra Naik in Panasaguda under Kashipur block, and Rajesh Bag and Barbil Naik in Kharajoda under Kalyansinghpur block.

Police reportedly recovered gold ornaments concealed inside the walls of Barbil Naik’s house. Silver articles were found hidden in a motorcycle’s storage compartment and inside a cattle shed. Although the recovered jewellery has not yet been officially weighed, police estimate that it could total around 5 kg, with an approximate market value of ₹8 crore.

Rajesh Bag and Barbil Naik have been detained and are being interrogated. Some other accused persons have reportedly already been arrested, while several others remain absconding.

According to police, a series of thefts had taken place around two months ago at the Duarashuni Temple in Sindhekela, jewellery shops and other locations in Balangir, as well as in Lanjigarh in Kalahandi and various parts of Rayagada and Kalyansinghpur.

The investigation reportedly began after police received information that a driver had been paid ₹1.60 lakh in connection with the thefts. Acting on the information, police questioned Barbil and Rajesh. During a video call on Wednesday, the two allegedly provided information about the locations where the stolen valuables had been concealed.

Based on their disclosures, police conducted searches at the three residences and recovered the jewellery.

Balangir SDPO Yashobanta Narayan Pradhani said the exact quantity and value of the recovered ornaments would become clear after they are weighed. Police said further investigation is underway and the absconding accused are expected to be arrested soon.

IIC Khagapati Biswal also provided information about the ongoing investigation.