Thane gold heist: Jeweller was robbed in similar manner in 2003 | Mumbai News

Thane: Investigators probing the Rs 5.79 crore robbery at a Thane jewellery store revealed that the jeweller was earlier robbed in a similar fashion in 2003 and lost five kgs of gold. The police said this fact came to light during the probe as multiple police teams are now working on tracking the accused, who sources confirm reportedly fled the state using an express train.
The jeweller was robbed during the wee hours on Tuesday as the accused robbed nearly 6.69 kgs of gold ornaments worth Rs 5.79 crore. CCTV footage has provided initial traces of the suspects’ movements, enabling investigators to build a more comprehensive profile of the criminals, said a police officer. The police, on the other hand, pointed out the store’s security lapses, particularly the absence of a night security guard despite housing valuable ornaments worth crores and the fact that they were already robbed in a similar fashion 21 years ago.
Investigators noted that the thieves meticulously planned the heist, strategically stealing display ornaments while leaving the safe untouched despite trying hard to break it. “Interestingly, the accused duo did not put on any mask to cover their faces, but according to their movements, they seem to be well-versed with the jewellery shop,” said an officer.
The technical probe is making progress, with police officers stating they have certain leads that could potentially help nab the accused.
The striking similarity between the current robbery and the 2003 incident has added an intriguing dimension to the investigation. As the manhunt continues, police said they will soon crack the sophisticated crime.