Chikkamagaluru Police make arrests in theft cases and recover valuables. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
In a significant operation, the Chikkamagaluru Police have announced the arrest of two individuals connected to a series of theft cases, leading to the recovery of stolen valuables exceeding ₹32 lakh. The apprehended suspects are believed to be members of the notorious ‘Chaddi Gang,’ a group known for committing robberies across various parts of Karnataka.
Chikkamagaluru Superintendent of Police, Vikram Amathe, addressed the media on Saturday, October 25, 2025, detailing the police’s relentless efforts. He explained that a dedicated special team was formed under the leadership of Chikkamagaluru Town Police Inspector Abhay following a theft reported in the town on June 20 earlier this year. In that incident, unknown perpetrators had absconded with 495 grams of gold jewelry and one kilogram of silver items.
The gold jewellery and silver items recovered by Chikkamagaluru Police. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Through continuous and diligent investigation over several days, police successfully traced two members of the gang to Maharashtra. They arrested Pappu Pawar (40) and Mangesh Ankush (23), both residents of Jalna district in Maharashtra. The recovered valuables were secured from them. The suspects have reportedly confessed to committing similar crimes in other districts, including Ballari, Gadag, and Chitradurga, in addition to Chikkamagaluru.
SP Amathe lauded the Chikkamagaluru Police for their successful apprehension of these two “Chaddi Gang” members, a group notorious for their criminal activities. He further stated that the arrested individuals have been remanded to judicial custody, and ongoing efforts are being made to track down and arrest the remaining six members of the gang.