Police arrest habitual offender targeting temples

The police on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) arrested a habitual offender involved in a series of temple thefts in Ramagiri, Chennekothapalli, and Kanaganapalli areas.

Addressing the media, Superintendent of Police S. Satish Kumar said that the accused, identified as Vadde Marriswamy alias Sangeetha, is a native of Makodi village in Settur mandal, and presently residing at Pavagada in Karnataka. Police said the accused was committing thefts to earn easy money to meet his expenses for alcohol, gambling, and financial debts.

The SP said Marriswamy identified isolated temples and entered the premises during night hours by breaking locks. He targeted gold and silver ornaments and hundi collections, and melted silver articles into biscuits for disposal.

Police seized approximately 27.5 grams of gold ornaments, nearly 380 grams of silver ornaments, a silver biscuit, and also a motorcycle used in the commission of offences.

Mr. Satish Kumar advised temple committees to strengthen security by installing CCTV cameras, using strong locks, and promptly informing police on dial 100/112 regarding suspicious persons or activities.