Bengaluru: A 49-year-old cycle repair shop owner from Kolar, who posed as a ‘baba’ (holy man) to dupe families and steal gold jewellery, has been arrested by the Hulimavu police.
The accused, identified as Dadapeer, targeted middle-class households in Bengaluru and other cities by claiming he could ward off evil forces and solve domestic problems through special rituals, as reported by Deccan Herald on Wednesday.
After Dadapeer gained the victims’ trust, he would instruct them to bring their jewellery for a “special puja.” During the ritual, he placed the ornaments inside a box, sprinkled turmeric and flowers, and then asked the family to step out, saying the ritual required privacy. He would then flee with the valuables, telling the victims not to open the box for 21 days.
Police said Dadapeer approached families from different communities, adapting his appearance and speech to match their faith. He frequently changed SIM cards and names to stay off the police radar.
Investigations revealed that he had three wives, 10 children, and multiple extramarital affairs, added the report. The stolen gold and money were allegedly spent on his partners and personal luxuries.
Police said his arrest has helped crack at least three cases, with gold ornaments worth Rs 53 lakh recovered so far. They suspect he carried out similar offences in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.
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Koppal: Police in Koppal City station limits have registered a case against more than 30 people and arrested three in connection with an alleged assault on a youngster over his relationship.
According to the complaint, Sameer Ahmed Moolimani (22), who works at a mobile agency, was sitting at a hotel with his girlfriend around 8:30 pm on May 6 when a group of youngsters approached him and asked his identity. He said that he was attacked after informing them about the relationship.
Sameer said in his complaint: “They blindfolded me, took me on a bike towards the Hospet side of the national highway, and assaulted me. They asked me, ‘Do you love a Hindu girl?’ They also threatened me, saying, ‘If I am seen with her again, I will not leave you alive.’"
He also stated that after the assault, he was blindfolded and later left near the district hospital.
Police have registered a case at Koppal City police station against more than 30 people, including the girl’s brothers Ashish and Nilesh. Three people have been arrested so far, and investigation is in progress.
