Annamayya district police in Andhra Pradesh have apprehended a five-member inter-district chain-snatching gang and recovered gold ornaments worth ₹116.2 lakh. The gang was involved in a series of chain snatchings across Annamayya, Chittoor, and Tirupati districts.
The arrested individuals have been identified as G. Venkatesh, the gang leader, along with P. Ravi, K. Muniraju, M. Venkatesh, and D. Kumar. Police investigations revealed that Venkatesh, a repeat offender with a prior criminal record, orchestrated the snatchings, while the others assisted in reconnaissance, execution, and disposal of the stolen property.
The gang targeted women travelling alone, particularly in isolated areas and during early morning or evening hours. They used motorcycles for swift escapes after committing the crimes. Police recovered 320 grams of gold chains and 1.1 kg of gold ornaments purchased with the proceeds from the snatched gold.
The operation was led by Annamayya Superintendent of Police Y. Rishanth Reddy, who stated that the gang had been active for the past six months. Police utilized CCTV footage and intelligence gathering to identify and track the suspects. Interrogation revealed the gang’s modus operandi and led to the recovery of the stolen gold.
Authorities are currently working to identify additional victims and return the recovered gold ornaments. Further investigation is underway to determine if the gang has any connections to other similar criminal activities in neighboring districts. The police have registered cases under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and are preparing to present the accused before the court. This successful operation highlights the Annamayya district police’s commitment to curbing crime and ensuring public safety.
