Notorious Temple Theft Gang Busted In KPHB

In a major breakthrough, the Kukatpally zone CCS, in coordination with the KPHB police, arrested a notorious inter-State temple theft gang and recovered stolen gold, silver and copper ornaments worth about Rs 26 lakh.

The theft had occurred at the Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple in Sardar Patel Nagar, KPHB Colony.

On January 7, 2026, temple manager Sri Kandula Maruthi reported that unknown offenders had broken into the temple sanctum overnight and stolen valuable ornaments. A case was registered in connection with the incident.

The police analysed footage from over 200 CCTV cameras, conducted technical surveillance and cross-checked suspect databases, which led to the identification and arrest of key gang members.

Those arrested include Maharaju Mallikarjun, Dunnapothula Pawan Kalyan alias Kalyan, Dandi Anil Teja, Kambapu Vijay, and Thangila Manikanta Durga Prasad alias Akhil.

Neelapu Neelaiah alias Anil, a habitual offender, and Bashya Venkat Mohith Kumar are still absconding.

According to the police, the prime accused, Neelapu Neelaiah, has 15 prior cases related to property offences and robbery. The gang conspired to commit temple thefts, and some members assisted in disposing of the stolen property.

The items recovered include gold and silver ornaments, idols worth Rs 26 lakh, a Jupiter two-wheeler and five smartphones.