Thieves fold hands, then flee with bells, lamps from temple in Greater Noida

Noida: Two thieves stole valuables from Khatu Shyam temple located in the Siddhpeeth Mahakaleshwar temple complex in Greater Noida, making away with two handbells, lamps and a large bell. Police said the theft was carried out in just seven minutes, and the accused were seen folding their hands and offering pranaam before leaving.The incident occurred on Jan 24 between 1.18pm and 1.25pm and was captured on CCTV cameras. CCTV footage shows two men entering the temple—one wearing a helmet and gloves, and the other wearing a cap and carrying a bag.Police said the accused first placed small lamps and handbells into the bag. They then targeted a large bell installed in the temple, took pliers out from their bag, cut the chain securing the bell and took it away. Before leaving the temple at around 1.25pm, both accused folded their hands and offered pranaam.Dadri SHO Jeetendra Singh said an FIR was registered against two unidentified persons under Section 305 (theft) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, based on a complaint filed by temple officials.Police teams have been formed to trace the accused and are examining CCTV footage from nearby temples. Singh said investigators have gathered key leads and further action is underway.