Daijiworld Media Network - Madurai
Madurai, Nov 12: Masked burglars broke into a newly opened Tanishq jewellery showroom on Madurai Bypass Road and escaped with gold ornaments worth several crores of rupees, police said.
The exact value of the stolen jewellery is yet to be established. However, local media reports have estimated that around 20 to 25 kg of gold, worth more than Rs 30 crore, may have been stolen. Some reports have suggested a significantly higher value, but neither the police nor the showroom management has confirmed these estimates.
The burglary came to light on Thursday morning when employees arrived to open the showroom, which had been inaugurated just 15 days ago, ahead of Diwali.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the burglars gained entry by breaking through the rear wall and doors of the showroom.
Madurai City Commissioner of Police S Rajendran inspected the scene along with Deputy Commissioners of Police AG Inigo Divyan and S Vanitha. Rajendran said CCTV footage indicated that three people were involved in the burglary.
"Three persons broke the wall and door to enter the shop. About 30 per cent of the total goods in the shop has been stolen. An investigation is underway to determine the exact value of the stolen jewellery," he told reporters.
Sniffer dogs were deployed at the scene, while investigators began examining CCTV footage from the surrounding areas to identify and trace the suspects.
Divyan said the burglars had taken only jewellery displayed in the showroom, leaving ornaments stored in lockers untouched. He added that the exact value of the stolen gold would be determined after the showroom management filed a formal complaint.
"We cannot state anything based on assumptions right now," he said.
Police have formed special investigation teams under three Assistant Commissioners of Police. Each team comprises three inspectors. The teams are examining CCTV footage and gathering evidence to identify the suspects and establish the exact quantity and value of the stolen jewellery.