Caretakers steal gold jewellery worth Rs 1.3 crore in Belagavi

Belagavi: In a shocking breach of trust, caretakers employed to assist an elderly, visually impaired doctor, allegedly stole gold jewellery around 910 grams, valued at over Rs 1.3 crore, from a residence on Club Road, in Belagavi.

Based on a complaint filed by Annapurna Vishwanath Ghate, 81, Camp police have registered a case against six caretakers and launched an investigation.

The complainant’s husband, Dr Vishwanath, 83, is elderly, physically weak, and visually impaired. Over the years, multiple caretakers were appointed to assist him. Police suspect that the accused misused their access to the house, particularly the bedroom cupboard, to carry out the theft.

The complaint has been registered against Siddu Ramchandra Devareddy of Betageri, Gadag district, Rahul Satish Kamble of Shedbal, Kagwad taluk, Manikant Manjunath Vernekar, of Shahapur, Anil Mudalagi of Belagavi city, Nagesh Vaddar of Karikatti, Khanapur taluk, and T Gopal from Hospet.

Preliminary investigation indicates that the theft was not a one-time act but occurred gradually over six months, between Oct 2025, and May 10, 2026. The crime came to light when Dr Annapurna discovered that their jewellery worth crores was missing after checking the cupboard. Following discussions with family members, she lodged a complaint at Camp police station on May 11.

Nearly one kilogram of gold ornaments was stolen. Police have taken the matter seriously and are probing all angles, including the possibility of systematic removal of valuables over time. The incident has triggered concern among residents, particularly those employing domestic help and caretakers. The present case, where caretakers themselves are allegedly involved, has heightened anxiety among residents who depend on external assistance for elderly care.