Kathua, Feb 28, KNT: Unknown thieves decamped with cash after breaking into a temple in Satura village of Kathua district during the intervening night, officials said on Saturday.
The incident occurred within the jurisdiction of Hiranagar Police Station. A police official told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the miscreants forcibly broke open the locks of the temple and escaped with nearly Rs 10,000 kept inside the premises. The theft came to light early in the morning when locals noticed the damaged locks and informed the authorities.
Soon after receiving information, a police team from Hiranagar Police Station rushed to the spot and secured the area. Officials said a formal case has been registered and an investigation has been taken up to ascertain the identity of the culprits.
A team from the Forensic Science Laboratory also visited the scene to gather material evidence. Police have begun scanning CCTV footage from nearby locations and are questioning locals to gather leads. Officers said efforts are underway to track down the suspects and recover the stolen cash.
The incident has triggered concern among inhabitants of the area, who have sought enhanced security arrangements around religious places to prevent such occurrences in future.
Further investigation is in progress. [KNT]
