New Delhi, Sep 8 || In a significant breakthrough, the Delhi Police Crime Branch has arrested the accused involved in the high-profile theft of a diamond-studded gold 'kalash (ceremonial vessel)' worth over Rs 1 crore from a religious event held at the historic Red Fort premises.
Sources within the Delhi Police confirmed the arrest on Monday, adding that further details will be shared once the interrogation concludes.
The stolen kalash was a part of the Jain religious festival Das Lakshan Mahaparv, organised at the 15 August Park located just in front of the iconic Red Fort.
The 10-day event, which saw the participation of prominent dignitaries including Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, was marred by the theft, raising serious questions about security arrangements at one of the country’s most important and sensitive heritage sites.
According to CCTV footage and police investigation, the accused entered the venue disguised as a Jain monk. Amid the ceremonial proceedings and the welcoming of dignitaries, the thief managed to walk away with a bag containing the 760-gram gold kalash, studded with 150 grams of diamonds, rubies, and emeralds, along with other valuables.