Vizhinjam theft: 16.5 sovereigns of gold, Rs 1 lakh stolen from retired officer’s house

Thiruvananthapuram: Thieves broke into the home of retired fire force officer Gilbert in Vizhinjam, stealing 16.5 sovereigns of gold and Rs 1 lakh in cash, police said Wednesday. Earlier reports had incorrectly stated that 90 sovereigns of gold were taken.

The robbery occurred on Tuesday night while Gilbert and his family were staying at his sister’s house. They found out about the theft on returning home on Wednesday morning. Police said the intruders forced open the front door and broke into cupboards on both floors of the house. Of the 90 sovereigns of gold stored in the house, only 16.5 sovereigns and Rs 1 lakh from Gilbert’s room were missing. The remaining gold, kept in his son Benson’s room, was untouched despite the cupboards being forced open.

A forensic team, fingerprint experts, and a dog squad inspected the scene. Police said the initial investigation indicates the thieves were familiar with the house and its surroundings. Vizhinjam police have launched a full investigation, including examining CCTV footage and phone records.