Andhra Pradesh: South Korean automobile manufacturer Kia has lodged a complaint alleging the theft of 900 car engines from its facility in Sri Sathyasai district, Andhra Pradesh. The thefts reportedly occurred over a span of nearly five years, with the company filing a formal police complaint on March 19, according to a report by The Economic Times.

The carmaker operates a large manufacturing plant in Penukonda, where local police have launched an investigation into what appears to be a long-running, large-scale operation.

What Did the Investigation Reveal?

Penukonda Sub-Divisional Police Officer Y Venkateshwarlu confirmed that the thefts began around 2020. "It (the thefts) started in 2020. It has been a continuous process for nearly five years. We will go deep into the investigation," he told PTI.

The officer also added that the preliminary investigations confirmed the disappearance of around 900 engines, with thefts taking place both within the manufacturing facility and while in transit. Authorities strongly suspect that the thefts could only have been carried out with the help of an insider.

"It's not outsiders—it's from within. Not even a small part can leave the premises without the management's knowledge. We're investigating who was involved,” Venkateshwarlu told the news agency.

Former and Current Employees Under Scrutiny

Venkateshwarlu added that the police identified loopholes in the internal processes. “We conducted a preliminary inquiry, found certain loopholes, and are now targeting former employees, though we believe some current employees may also be involved,” he told PTI.

To move the investigation forward, special police teams have been formed and various company records have been seized for examination.

Meanwhile, the company officials haven’t released an official statement on the matter.