Granite slab stolen from tomb in Pathanamthitta, third such theft since July
Pathanamthitta: A granite slab was stolen from a tomb at a church cemetery in the Mallappally area on Sunday, marking the third such incident reported locally since July, police said.
The latest theft took place at St Thomas Mar Thoma Church in Anicadu near Mallappally. A black granite slab measuring six feet by three feet was removed from the tomb of Annamma Kurien.
The theft came to light on Sunday morning when people arrived at the cemetery for prayers and noticed that the slab was missing. They alerted Keezhvaipur police.
Third similar theft since July
The latest incident comes as police investigate two similar thefts reported in July within the Keezhvaipur police station limits.
Granite slabs were earlier stolen from tombs at Mar Thomas Church in Vengalassery and the Zion Mar Thoma Church cemetery in Mankuzhippadi.
Police suspect the three incidents could be linked and are examining whether the same person or group may be involved.
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Cemeteries without CCTV allegedly targeted
Police said the modus operandi in the three cases appears similar, with the accused allegedly targeting church cemeteries that do not have CCTV surveillance.
Fingerprint samples collected from the latest crime scene will be examined to determine whether they can establish a link with the earlier thefts.
The slabs, each measuring six feet by three feet and bearing an engraved cross, are difficult to reuse. This has led police to examine the possible involvement of people associated with granite fabrication or tomb construction.
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Police step up surveillance
Following the earlier incidents, police had increased night patrols near religious places within the station limits.
After the latest theft, police plan to meet priests and church members in the area and request the installation of CCTV cameras with adequate power backup.
A police team is also examining CCTV footage from nearby houses and shops for clues about those involved. A case will be registered after a complaint is received from the family of the deceased.
PTI