Pune: The revered Vitthal Rukmini Temple in Sadashiv Peth, Pune, fell victim to unknown thieves who made off with ancient idols and valuable silver ornaments. The brazen robbery occurred on March 8 around 3:00 p.m., prompting swift action from law enforcement authorities.
According to reports, Gaurav Dnyaneshwar Sinnarkar, a resident of Sadashiv Peth, Khajina Viheer Chowk, filed a complaint at Vishrambaug Police Station after discovering the theft. The perpetrators, whose identities remain unknown, are believed to be between the ages of 25 and 30. Vishram Bagh police have registered a case under IPC sections 457, 380, and 34 in connection with the incident.
The Khajina Viheer Vitthal Rukmini Temple, renowned for its antiquity and spiritual significance, houses revered idols of Vitthal Rukmini, Lord Ganesha, and goddess Tuljabhavani. On the night of March 8, the thieves brazenly trespassed onto the temple premises, forcibly breaking locks to gain entry. Once inside, they targeted the deity room, where they pilfered the ancient silver idols from the cupboard.
In addition to the idols, the thieves also made away with silver Makhar adorning the temple walls, valued at a total of Rs 41,500. The audacious robbery has left devotees and temple authorities distraught.
Upon receiving the news, law enforcement officials, including Assistant Commissioner of Police Sainath Thombare, Senior Police Inspector Dipali Bhujbal, and Police Inspector (Crime) Arun Ghodke, swiftly mobilised to the scene. Assisted by Assistant Police Inspector Tukaram Nimbalkar and Sub-Inspector of Police Fartade, a comprehensive investigation has been launched by the police to apprehend the culprits and recover the stolen artifacts.