Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the theft of ₹1.13 crore in cash from the residence of Karnataka Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi’s mother in Mudhol, Bagalkote district. The arrested include a relative of a domestic worker employed at the house.
The theft occurred between January 29th and February 1st while the minister’s mother, Lakshmidevi Tangadagi, was visiting her daughter in Bengaluru. Upon returning, she discovered the cash, kept in a steel almirah, was missing. The cash was accumulated over time from agricultural income and savings.
Police investigations revealed the involvement of the domestic worker’s relative, identified as Mallikarjun Pujar, and a second individual, Basavaraj Pujar. Mallikarjun allegedly gained information about the cash and the house’s layout through the domestic worker. Basavaraj assisted in executing the theft.
Authorities recovered ₹98.5 lakh from the possession of the accused. The stolen money was hidden in a farm belonging to Basavaraj in Mudhol. Police are continuing their investigation to determine if any additional individuals were involved and to recover the remaining stolen amount.
Bagalkote Superintendent of Police Lada Boregowda confirmed the arrests and the recovery of the cash. The accused have been remanded to police custody for further interrogation. The investigation focused on individuals with access to the house and knowledge of the cash’s presence. The quick recovery of a significant portion of the stolen money is attributed to the prompt investigation and coordinated efforts of the police team. The case highlights the importance of securing valuables even within seemingly safe environments.
