Two sisters arrested for stealing $15,000, 750gms of gold from elderly couple in Mumbai

An officer stated, “Due to their old age, the couple employed three household helpers. While a male servant worked a 24-hour shift, one of the arrested individuals, identified as Chayya, worked a 12-hour shift.”

Chayya began working at their residence in July 2023. Initially, she worked around the clock, but her schedule was later adjusted to 12 hours. After a few months, in December 2023, she began pilfering from the household.

“For the initial period, she observed the household routine, noting where the couple stored their valuables and the location of the keys to their safe. Subsequently, she used these keys to access the drawers and pilfer small amounts,” explained an officer.

Over three months, she stole $15,000 in cash and 750 grams of gold, after which she abruptly stopped reporting for work. In early May, the elderly couple discovered the missing gold from their wardrobe. Initially, they informed their children and attempted to contact Chayya, but receiving no response, they grew suspicious and filed a complaint with the police on May 4.

“Following the thefts, she handed over the stolen gold to her accomplice, Bharti, who aided in its disposal,” an investigator disclosed. “As the couple’s suspicions fell on Chayya, we located and brought her to the police station for questioning,” an officer remarked.

During interrogation, Chayya confessed to the thefts, admitting to stealing small amounts over time. The stolen cash and gold are estimated to be worth Rs 65 lakhs, stated the police. “Chayya divulged her sister’s involvement, leading to Bharti’s detention and subsequent arrest. We recovered some of the cash from Bharti’s residence,” an investigator added.

Following the arrests, the police have reclaimed 90 percent of the stolen items. “The duo utilised some of the funds to repay a relative’s loan, while retaining some items for personal use,” an officer disclosed.

The two sisters have been charged under sections 381 (theft by a servant of property in possession of the master) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code.