Three held with centruries-old idols

Vadodara: The Detection of Crime Branch (DCB) on Thursday arrested three men for allegedly stealing centuries-old idols and ornaments from a Jain temple in city’s Akota area.

The burglary took place on May 29 after the accused allegedly broke into the temple and decamped with the valuables. A complaint was subsequently registered at Akota police station.

Acting on a tip-off, DCB officials intercepted three suspects near the Golden Chowkdi bypass while they were allegedly attempting to flee to Dahod with the stolen items. The accused were identified as Vijay Sangada, Dharmesh Mavi and Sunil Dangi, all residents of Dahod district.

During a search of their belongings, police recovered 540-year-old Jain idols along with the stolen ornaments. During questioning, the trio allegedly confessed to the theft.

Police are investigating whether the accused were involved in similar offences elsewhere in the state.