Four ‘Sadhus’ detained in Bhubaneswar on theft suspicion

Bhubaneswar, Dec 28: Four individuals, claiming to be ‘sadhus’, were detained by the police on Saturday in the Maitri Vihar area of Bhubaneswar on suspicion of involvement in theft.

According to sources, the suspects, dressed in saffron robes, approached residents in the area, asking for alms while identifying themselves as sadhus. However, when they rejected donations of Rs 10 and demanded larger sums ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 100, local residents grew suspicious and alerted the police. It is alleged that the group had been scouting different locations during the day in preparation for potential robberies at night.

The four suspects were taken to the Maitri Vihar police station for questioning. Initial investigations revealed that they were from Rajasthan, and police are working to verify their identities and check for any prior criminal history.

This incident is particularly concerning as Bhubaneswar has witnessed a rise in robberies, especially in residential areas and apartments. In response, the Commissionerate Police has increased surveillance efforts to prevent further criminal activity in the city.