Nayagarh, May 1: In a shocking incident, thieves broke into the Maa Vaishnodevi Temple; the second prominent shrine of the deity located in the Jamukon Hills of Nayagarh district, and stole all the gold ornaments adorning the idol.

The perpetrators reportedly entered a 180-foot cave housing the deity after cutting the main gate. They took advantage of heavy winds and rain that caused a power outage, rendering the CCTV cameras non-functional. The stolen gold ornaments, donated by the Maa Vaishnodevi Charitable Trust and devotees, are estimated to be worth around ₹40 lakh.

Despite the presence of security personnel, the thieves managed to carry out the robbery undetected. Local sources speculate that the culprits may be from nearby areas.

Sharanakul police have reached the temple and launched an investigation into the daring theft. Temple authorities and devotees are deeply distressed over the incident, as the sanctum is now left without the sacred ornaments.