Baramulla, Aug 16: Burglars have created panic in several villages in the Kandi area of Baramulla after a series of burglary incidents and attempts were reported from the area, prompting locals to seek increased night-time security and installation of CCTV cameras at vulnerable locations.
Residents of Bandipayeen village said that on Saturday evening, suspected burglars attempted to take away a cow belonging to the Najar family. However, locals were alerted, following which the suspects fled, leaving the animal behind in a maize field.
“We are worried about the safety of our homes and property. Such incidents have created panic in the villages,” a group of residents said.
Locals said several burglary incidents have been reported from Kalantra Bala, Nilsar, Bandipayeen and other villages in recent days, leaving residents concerned about their safety and property.
According to locals, the safe of a Masjid Sharief in Kalantra Bala was looted during the night last week. In another incident in the same village, an alleged burglary attempt near another Masjid Sharief was foiled after locals noticed suspicious activity and informed the police.
“This had never happened before—that a theft would take place inside a mosque. It is a very unfortunate incident, and we have been deeply disturbed by it,” said Ghulam Mohd, a local resident.
The incidents have created a sense of fear among residents, particularly during night hours, with locals saying they are now keeping a closer watch on their surroundings.
Locals have demanded that the police increase night patrolling in the affected areas and install CCTV cameras at sensitive and vulnerable locations to prevent such incidents and help identify those involved.
Residents have also appealed to people to remain vigilant and immediately inform police about any suspicious movement in their neighbourhoods.
Meanwhile, in the upper belt of Kandi, Baramulla, police have recovered dozens of stolen copper utensils, including Tash, Near, Samavar, Kenz, bowls, Sarposh, Traami and pots, in connection with a theft case.
According to a police statement, on August 9, Police Station Chandoosa received a complaint regarding the theft of copper utensils from a house in Nilsar. During the investigation, a suspect from Nilsar was questioned and allegedly disclosed his involvement in the theft.
Following his disclosure, the stolen property was recovered from concealed land in Nilsar in the presence of the Executive Magistrate 1st Class, Wagoora, and independent witnesses. The recovered property included 53 copper items.
Further investigation revealed the alleged involvement of another accused from Takiya Yousuf Shah, who was subsequently arrested. Both accused have been arrested and further investigation is underway.
