Two men accused of carrying out a series of temple thefts in Gujarat’s Kutch district by using Google Maps to identify targets have been arrested, with police recovering valuables worth nearly ₹10 lakh, including jewellery, cash, and mobile phones.
According to officials, the suspects allegedly relied on digital mapping tools to locate temples, particularly those situated in isolated areas, and then carried out thefts during the night. The case came to light after a burglary at the Khodiyar Mata and Ramapir temples in Moti Hamirpar village, where ornaments valued at ₹1,10,150 were stolen. Police acted promptly and managed to solve the case within a few days.
The accused have been identified as Panchabhai Koli, a resident of Gedi, and Javed Ghanchi from Umaiya. They were apprehended while reportedly travelling towards Radhanpur with the intention of selling the stolen items. Acting on specific intelligence, police intercepted them and recovered jewellery, cash, and mobile phones from their possession.
During questioning, it was revealed that Ghanchi was skilled in using mobile technology and would scan Google Maps to identify potential targets. Once a location was selected, the duo would travel on foot at night, break open locks using a sharp iron tool—commonly used for cutting coconuts—and steal valuables from the premises.
The arrests have also enabled police to crack multiple theft cases, including incidents reported at the Selari temple. Officials stated that among the recovered items were 14 silver umbrellas, a snake idol made of silver-like metal, along with cash and mobile phones. The total value of the seized property is estimated to be around ₹10 lakh, including ₹2,28,160 in cash.
Authorities further confirmed that three cases have been registered against Javed Ghanchi and two against Panchabhai Koli under various legal provisions. The investigation is ongoing, and officials are examining whether the duo may be linked to additional thefts in the region.
