Silchar, August 18: In an unusual incident, CCTV footage from the Shani Mandir located along the Silchar-Hailakandi Road captured a thief who prayed before committing a burglary on the night of August 15.

The video reveals the suspect folding his hands in reverence before the idol, only to later remove jewelry from the statue.

As reported by the temple priest and local residents, various ornaments and valuables were taken, and the idol of Shanidev suffered partial damage.

A local resident expressed disbelief, stating, “A theft in a temple is unheard of in this locality. The thief not only stole ornaments but also vandalized the statue, breaking one of its arms.”

Following an investigation, Cachar police apprehended two individuals: Anik Das (27) from Chalta Basti, Dwarbond, and Pallab Das (26) from Silcoorie Camp No. 7, Ghungoor.

Cachar SSP Numal Mahatta informed the media on Sunday that recovered stolen items included a gold chain, the gold eye of the idol, and two silver bracelets.

Mahatta stated, “Forensic and fingerprint teams, along with technical analysis, were deployed. We successfully arrested the suspects within 24 hours of the incident.”

The SSP also noted that the main suspect, Anik, had been incarcerated just 15 days prior for another case at the Dwarbond police station.

Authorities revealed that he and his accomplice Pallab sold the stolen items to a local jewelry store, leading to the arrest of the store owner as well.

This incident has left the community in shock, with many residents commenting on the unprecedented nature of such an act in their area.