A housemaid and her minor daughter have been apprehended in Hyderabad for allegedly stealing ₹19 lakh in cash and gold ornaments from a residence in Jubilee Hills. The theft occurred between May 13th and 16th while the homeowner, a businessman named V.V.S. Rao, was away in Visakhapatnam.
The accused, identified as Lakshmi and her 16-year-old daughter, were employed at Rao’s house for the past six months. According to police investigation, Lakshmi initially took ₹5 lakh in cash, and later, along with her daughter, stole gold ornaments weighing approximately 10 tolas.
Police recovered ₹14.5 lakh in cash and a portion of the stolen gold ornaments from the accused. The remaining gold is still to be recovered. The investigation revealed that Lakshmi had accumulated debts and used the stolen money to repay them and for personal expenses. Her daughter assisted in concealing the stolen items.
The Jubilee Hills police registered a case and initiated an investigation based on a complaint filed by Rao upon his return. CCTV footage from the surrounding area and within the house helped identify the suspects. Interrogation of the accused confirmed their involvement in the crime.
The minor daughter has been sent to a juvenile home, while Lakshmi has been remanded to judicial custody. Police are continuing their investigation to recover the remaining stolen gold and determine if the accused have been involved in any other similar incidents. The case highlights concerns regarding domestic help and the need for thorough background checks.
