Leh, Oct 17: Police in Ladakh have uncovered an alleged network involved in thefts targeting monasteries and religious heritage sites across the region, including a theft reported at Igoo village during the intervening night of September 3 and 4, 2026.
According to police, five accused were identified in the Igoo case, of whom four have been apprehended and convicted, while the fifth, identified as Farid, remains absconding. The four accused are Mohd Manzoor Bakerwal, Meser Khan, Mohd Hanief and Mohd Haroon Famda.
Police said stolen property worth approximately ₹9 lakh had been recovered following coordinated investigations that led to the accused being traced to Kashmir and Kathua and brought to Ladakh.
Further investigation has allegedly linked the accused to other theft cases involving monasteries, locally known as Gompas, in different parts of Ladakh.
These include FIR No. 153/2026, registered over a theft at Umla Gompa in July 2026, and FIR No. 159/2024 concerning Au-Yu Monastery. Both cases remain under investigation.
Police have also identified possible links to five cases earlier declared untraced after investigation and submission of final reports before the competent court. These concern Sakti Gompa, Taru Gompa, Kharnakling Gompa in Choglamsar, Khaipuk Gompa in Sakti and Matho Gompa. Police have approached the court seeking permission to reopen these cases for further investigation.
Investigators are examining suspected links to additional thefts at monasteries in Samad, Nyoma, Saspol, Biama, Bodhkharboo, Nang and Gya-Miru. Some incidents in Nang and Gya-Miru had reportedly not been brought to the notice of police.
Silver articles are believed to have been among the primary targets. Police said some suspected stolen items had been recovered, with verification underway to establish their ownership and links to individual cases.
The investigation has also revealed that the stolen articles were allegedly sold to goldsmiths in Kashmir. Police are examining the identities and possible roles of those involved and continuing efforts to recover additional property.
Police have appealed to residents, village representatives and monastery management committees to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities around religious sites. The public has been advised to contact the nearest police station or dial 112 to report suspicious activity or thefts.
