A theft was reported at a temple in Lucknow after unidentified thieves allegedly stole five silver crowns from the Panchmukhi Hanuman idol and removed crowns and ceremonial umbrellas from other deities installed in the temple.
According to the reported sequence of events, the thieves reached the temple's main channel gate and cut all four locks before entering the premises. They then remained inside the temple for some time and carried out the theft.
The incident came to light in the morning when the priest and devotees arrived to open the temple. They found the locks broken and discovered that the crowns and ceremonial umbrellas were missing from the idols.
Police were informed immediately after the incident was detected. A police team reached the temple, inspected the scene, and began an investigation. CCTV footage from cameras installed around the temple is being examined to identify the suspects.
According to the information available, the thieves first cut the four locks on the outer channel gate before entering the temple. Inside, they removed valuable crowns and ceremonial umbrellas from the idols one by one. The five silver crowns placed on the Panchmukhi Hanuman idol were also taken.
Following the incident, a large number of local residents gathered near the temple. Devotees expressed concern over the theft and questioned the temple's security arrangements, while urging police to arrest those responsible.
According to the temple management, the stolen property includes silver crowns and ceremonial umbrellas. The five silver crowns from the Panchmukhi Hanuman idol are among the principal items reported stolen. Crowns and ceremonial umbrellas were also removed from other idols installed in the temple.
Based on the manner in which the theft was carried out, it is being suspected that the thieves may have conducted prior reconnaissance of the temple. They were believed to have been aware that valuable metal crowns and other items were kept inside the premises and allegedly took advantage of the temple being deserted at night.
Police are also collecting information regarding suspicious activities in nearby areas. In addition to CCTV cameras around the temple, footage from cameras installed on surrounding approach roads may also be examined to determine the route taken by the suspects after the theft.
The incident has prompted concern among local devotees, who stated that such an incident at a religious site is serious and that adequate security arrangements should be ensured. Local residents have also demanded increased police patrolling during night hours.
The priest and other persons associated with the temple said that broken locks were the first indication of the incident when they arrived in the morning. Upon entering the temple, they found that crowns and ceremonial umbrellas placed on several idols were missing, following which police were informed.
Police have registered a theft complaint and initiated an investigation. The value of the stolen property is being assessed. The total loss will be determined based on the number and weight of the stolen silver crowns and ceremonial umbrellas.
The investigating team is also trying to determine whether the theft was committed by a single individual or by a group. Police believe that cutting four locks, entering the temple, and removing items from all the principal idols would have taken time. Investigators expect that questioning local residents may provide further leads.
The incident has also triggered discussions regarding security arrangements at the temple. Local residents have called for enhanced night-time security and regular monitoring of CCTV cameras.
Police are continuing efforts to recover the stolen crowns and ceremonial umbrellas and identify and arrest those responsible. The investigation is proceeding on the basis of CCTV footage, potential evidence collected from the scene, and local information.
