SHIKARPUR: Unknown thieves broke into the Maha Shakti Mata Temple in Shikarpur district and stole gold ornaments, cash, antique artefacts and other valuables worth millions of rupees, police and temple officials said.
The incident took place within the jurisdiction of Stuart Gunj police station, where the suspects allegedly broke the temple’s locks to enter.
According to temple officials, the thieves stole gold ornaments offered to the idols, including a gold chain from the neck of an idol. They also broke open a safe and took cash kept inside, including donations offered by devotees.
Other stolen items reportedly included antique artefacts, crockery and valuables stored in two cupboards inside the temple.
Temple custodian Poon Kumar said the stolen items included gold, cash and antiques of considerable value. Some of the cash and supplies had also been kept aside for people in need, he added.
Temple management called on police to immediately arrest those responsible and recover the stolen property.
Meanwhile, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shikarpur Muhammad Kaleem took serious notice of the incident and sought an initial report from ASP City Muhammad Asif, according to a police spokesperson.
The SSP directed the concerned officers to investigate the theft from all possible angles and ensure the early arrest of the suspects with the assistance of modern technology.
He said protecting citizens’ lives and property, as well as safeguarding religious places, remained a top priority for Shikarpur Police.
The SSP also stressed the need for an effective investigation and prompt action to bring those responsible to justice.
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