Major Theft at Businessman’s Home in Delhi
In a significant breakthrough, Delhi Police, in collaboration with Odisha Police, have apprehended three individuals accused of orchestrating a theft of over ₹1.1 crore from the residence of a businessman in Delhi. The theft, which involved former domestic staff of the household, came to light recently, triggering a multi-state investigation that led to the arrest of the accused and partial recovery of the stolen money.
Mastermind Was an Insider
The key accused, identified as Kashinath Mallick, a 30-year-old man from Bhimei Gaon in Balasore district of Odisha, was previously employed as a cook in the victim’s house. According to the police, Kashinath used his familiarity with the house layout, routines, and security arrangements to plan the theft meticulously. He allegedly recruited two accomplices, who also had prior experience working in the household as domestic helpers, to execute the crime.
₹1.10 Crore Stolen, ₹65 Lakh Recovered
The trio managed to steal a whopping ₹1.10 crore in cash from the businessman’s home and fled the city shortly afterward. Acting swiftly, Delhi Police traced the suspects’ whereabouts across state borders. Kashinath Mallick was arrested on Sunday from his village under the Iswarpur police outpost in the Nilagiri area of Balasore, Odisha. At the time of his arrest, officials recovered ₹20 lakh in cash from his possession.
Meanwhile, the other two accused, Ashutosh Mallick (27) and Jagabandhu Mallick (30), were tracked down and arrested from different locations. Ashutosh was apprehended at Delhi railway station while trying to board a train, and Jagabandhu was caught at the Patna Bus Stand. Combined, police recovered ₹45 lakh from their possession, bringing the total recovery to ₹65 lakh.
Planned Crime Based on Insider Access
Investigators believe that the theft was not an impulsive act but a carefully plotted scheme executed over weeks, possibly months. Kashinath, who had been working at the businessman’s house for some time, was familiar with the daily routine and the presence—or lack—of surveillance systems in the house. He reportedly used this information to plan the theft during a period when the family members were away or less attentive.
The involvement of the other two accused was equally crucial. Both Ashutosh and Jagabandhu had formerly served as domestic help in the same household. Police officials stated that this prior employment gave them easy access to the house without raising any suspicion, which was key to the successful execution of the plan.
Investigation and Police Coordination
The arrest of Kashinath was made possible due to the prompt cooperation between the Delhi and Odisha police departments. “We coordinated with local law enforcement in Odisha and managed to trace Kashinath to his native village in Bhimei Gaon. Upon search and questioning, he confessed to the crime and revealed the identities and locations of his associates,” said a senior officer from Delhi Police.
A case under relevant sections of theft and criminal conspiracy has been registered against the trio. The police are continuing their investigation to recover the remaining stolen money and to determine whether any other individuals were involved in aiding the escape or hiding the cash.
Caution for Employers
This incident has once again highlighted the importance of thorough background checks while hiring domestic staff. Authorities have urged residents, especially those handling large amounts of cash or valuables at home, to employ verified workers and ensure the installation of security systems, including surveillance cameras and alarm systems.
Legal Proceedings Underway
All three accused are currently in police custody and are being interrogated. Legal proceedings have been initiated, and they are expected to be produced in court soon. Police sources indicate that they are also probing whether the stolen money was part of larger financial holdings or intended for a specific purpose.
While a major portion of the stolen cash has been recovered, police are hopeful that the remaining amount will also be traced with the help of further questioning and forensic analysis.
