When thieves dared to strike in daylight near police station in Karnataka...

Kolar: In a dramatic chase straight out of a movie scene, a gang of thieves, who allegedly stole Rs 1 lakh from a parked two-wheeler near Bethamangala police station (100km from Bengaluru) near KGF was chased down by alert locals, who managed to catch one of the accused.

The incident occurred around noon on Wednesday. Ramesh, a resident of New Town in Bethamangala, had just withdrawn Rs 1 lakh from his bank account and kept the cash inside the storage box of his scooter before stepping into a nearby shop. Sensing an opportunity, four men allegedly opened the box, grabbed the cash and attempted to flee. But the plan went all south when Ramesh’s son spotted the theft and raised an alarm.

Within seconds, locals joined the chase, pursuing the accused on two-wheelers and autorickshaws through busy streets. After a dramatic chase for close to half a kilometre, the crowd managed to corner and catch one of the suspects.

The accused, identified as Giri, 40, from OG Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, was allegedly beaten up by the angry crowd before being handed over to police. The stolen cash was recovered from him.

Police said the gang’s audacity was striking, as the theft took place close to a police station in broad daylight. According to them, gangs from OG Kuppam are known for targeting bank customers. Their usual method involves watching people withdraw large amounts of cash, following them discreetly and striking when they get an opportunity.

“Usually they move in groups of four or five. After committing the theft, each person runs in a different direction to confuse the public and escape,” police sub-inspector said.