A strange incident of theft has come to light in Surat's Umra and Athwa areas. The police investigation revealed that the accused, Saddam Bobde Rashid Sheikh (25) and Iftkhar alias Lambu Mohammad Haroon (40), used to pose as garbage collectors to gain access to houses and shops. They carried a plastic bag containing tools to open shutters.
By collecting garbage around the targeted location, they diverted people's attention. Once the coast was clear, they would open the shutters, enter the premises, and steal goods. After committing the theft, they would change their clothes at a distance, abandoning the garbage collection bag to avoid suspicion.
The case came to light following a theft at a handloom showroom in Umra. The showroom owner lodged a complaint, and CCTV footage revealed two individuals carrying bags, ostensibly to collect garbage. The police monitored their activities and eventually arrested them.
The police have recovered stolen goods worth Rs 3850 from the accused. This incident has served as a wake-up call for residents and shop owners to enhance their security measures.
