Thane Police Arrest Salesman for Alleged Theft of Rs 1.05 Crore Jewellery

Thane, 31st March 2024: In a significant breakthrough, the police have apprehended a 27-year-old salesman, Rahul Jayantilal Mehta, for allegedly orchestrating the theft of jewellery worth Rs 1.05 crore from a shop in Thane city, Maharashtra. The arrest was made on March 26 from the Mira Road area, where Mehta had arrived to meet his girlfriend.

The jewellery shop owner, based in the Talao Pali area, complained on March 25, prompting the initiation of an FIR against Mehta under section 408 of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with criminal breach of trust by a clerk or servant. Mehta, entrusted with sales responsibilities at the shop, reportedly pilfered 70 pieces of jewellery weighing a total of 1.59 kg over the period from November 2023 to March 2024.

Mehta had been conspicuously absent from work since March 8, 2024, and his disappearance was reported by his wife on March 15. Investigation revealed that he had traversed to various locations including Mumbai, Indore, Gujarat, and others to evade capture.

Acting on a tip-off regarding Mehta’s rendezvous plan with his girlfriend in Mira Road, the police laid a successful ambush and apprehended him upon arrival. Subsequent interrogation revealed Mehta’s extravagant lifestyle, funded by the proceeds of his thefts, which included frequent visits to pubs and luxury hotels.

The police have managed to recover 900 grams of jewellery valued at approximately Rs 62.10 lakh from Mehta thus far. The investigation into the case remains ongoing as authorities strive to ascertain the full extent of Mehta’s involvement and recover any additional stolen items.