Kolar man posing as ‘baba’ to rob families arrested; spent stolen riches on 3 wives, 10 children
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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Indian Navy vigilant in safeguarding country's maritime interests: Prez Murmu
Visakhapatnam (PTI): President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday said that the Indian Navy is vigilant in safeguarding country's maritime interests and is contributing to stability across wider maritime commerce.
Presiding over the International Fleet Review (IFR) off Vizag coast abroad an Indian Naval warship in the Bay of Bengal, the President said the Indian Navy is deployed in the region to serve as a credible instrument of deterrence and defence against threats and challenges arising in the sea.
"Indian Navy is vigilant in safeguarding India's maritime interests and is contributing to stability across wider maritime commerce," Murmu said.
Further, she noted that the Indian Navy plays a vital role in promoting goodwill and building bridges of trust, confidence and friendship with navies around the globe.
Murmu addressed the IFR after she sailed to review several Indian and foreign vessels.
