Jewelry thefts in India involve groups posing as customers

Police in India have investigated two separate jewelry thefts involving groups of women posing as customers to steal gold.

In Bhubaneswar, Chandrasekharpur police arrested three women for allegedly stealing gold from a shop near Damana Square. CCTV footage showed the suspects distracting staff while one woman tucked a mangalsutra into the folds of her saree. The stolen items were recovered, and police noted the suspects had multiple prior theft cases registered against them.

In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, a group of burqa-clad women and their male accomplices allegedly stole 1.5 kg of gold valued at approximately Rs 2 crore from Vishwas Jewellers. CCTV footage revealed the gang used a distraction tactic, with one member reaching under a counter to take a jewelry box while others occupied the sales staff. Investigators believe the group conducted reconnaissance of the premises prior to the theft.