Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, July 16: A BTech graduate who gave up a well-paying job has been arrested by Malleswaram police for allegedly stealing gold ornaments from jewellery stores by posing as a customer and distracting shop staff.

The accused has been identified as 25-year-old Richard, a resident of Nehru Nagar in Virajpet, Kodagu.

Police said they have recovered 134 grams of gold jewellery worth Rs 13 lac from him.

According to officials, Richard, who completed his B.Tech degree from a private college in Bengaluru, was employed with a company and earned a monthly salary of Rs 1 lac. However, driven by greed, he quit his job and began indulging in theft.

“Obsessed with branded goods and a lavish lifestyle, he resorted to theft for easy money,” said police sources.

Richard allegedly targeted jewellery stores that lacked security guards. Posing as a customer, he would ask the staff to show him various intricate designs. While they were distracted, he would steal jewellery items.

Police said he is involved in nine theft cases registered across Bengaluru and even in Kottayam, Kerala.