A theft incident has been reported at the Bhireshwar temple in Dhupadala village of Savadatti taluk in Belagavi district, causing shock and concern among local residents. Unknown miscreants broke into the ancient temple and made away with gold and silver ornaments, along with the idol of the deity. The idol was later found thrown on the outskirts of the village.
According to information, the thieves forced open the main door of the temple late Sunday night and stole valuables, including a silver horse weighing around two kilograms and two gold chains that were offered to the deity. They also removed the idol of Lord Bhireshwar from the sanctum.
Idol dumped and suspects flee
It has been learned that after committing the theft, the accused carried the idol to the village outskirts, abandoned it there, and fled. The incident came to light when priests and villagers arrived for morning पूजा and noticed the broken door. They immediately alerted the police.
Officials from Savadatti Police Station rushed to the spot and began their investigation. Fingerprints are being collected at the scene, and police have intensified their efforts to track down the culprits using CCTV footage.
Devotees express anger
The incident has sparked outrage and anxiety among devotees in Dhupadala village. Residents have demanded stricter security measures for the temple and urged the police to arrest the accused at the earliest. A case has been registered at Savadatti Police Station, and further investigation is underway.
