Bengaluru Police Recover Stolen Olympic Medals of M.M. Somaya
Authorities arrested two habitual offenders who burglarized the former hockey player's residence.
1Olympic Medals Recovered
Bengaluru police successfully recovered eight international sports medals stolen from the residence of former hockey player M.M. Somaya. The collection includes his gold medal from the 1980 Moscow Olympics. The theft occurred while the family was visiting their native Kodagu district, leaving the residence vulnerable to the intruders who broke the locks.
2Investigation and Arrests
Indiranagar police formed eight special teams to investigate the burglary reported on October 28. Acting on intelligence, officers arrested two suspects, Manikya and Bharat, near Hagalahalli Cross on November 9. The accused were found with the two-wheeler allegedly used during the crime and are currently held in eight days of police custody.
3Criminal Backgrounds
The primary suspect, Manikya, has a significant criminal history with 33 registered cases across Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. He faces multiple non-bailable warrants and proclamation proceedings. His accomplice, Bharat, is linked to two other criminal cases. Both individuals reportedly confessed to the theft, which they executed alongside a third associate who remains absconding.
4Recovery of Stolen Goods
Interrogation revealed that the suspects had sold two medals to a gold-buying company in Rajajinagar. Police successfully retrieved these items from the establishment. The remaining six medals, a traditional Kodava dagger, a camera, and an Olympic kit bag were recovered from the residence of one of the accused located in Hoskote.
5Random Burglary Motive
Authorities stated that the theft was a random act rather than a targeted strike. The perpetrators reportedly broke into the house without realizing the historical significance or the immense sentimental value of the sports medals. They were primarily focused on stealing gold, silver articles, and cash, treating the medals as simple commodities.
6Official Police Recognition
Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh personally oversaw the return of the prized possessions to M.M. Somaya. To recognize the efficiency of the investigation team, the Commissioner announced a cash reward of one lakh rupees. This gesture highlights the department's commitment to resolving high-profile property crimes within the city limits.
7Somaya Expresses Relief
Former hockey player M.M. Somaya expressed deep gratitude toward the Indiranagar police for their swift action. He specifically thanked the local police inspector for providing constant reassurance throughout the recovery process. Somaya noted that the return of these medals feels like winning them all over again, emphasizing their profound personal importance.
8Ongoing Legal Efforts
While the majority of the stolen items have been recovered, the investigation remains active as authorities search for the third suspect involved in the burglary. The police are continuing efforts to locate the remaining stolen property not yet accounted for. The two arrested suspects will face further questioning regarding their criminal network.