Blessings that robbed: ‘Gods’ at Kolkata signals unmasked as wallet and mobile thieves

In a startling case that has shaken both commuters and devotees, Kolkata Police have arrested four men accused of posing as Hindu gods and goddesses to carry out a series of stealthy thefts across the city.

What appeared to be harmless religious performers seeking alms at busy intersections allegedly masked a calculated scheme to prey on unsuspecting pedestrians.

According to investigators, members of the group dressed as deities, including Maa Kali and Lord Shiva, approached people waiting at traffic signals or crossing roads.

While engaging them in conversation or blessings, they allegedly used distraction techniques to lift wallets and mobile phones with remarkable dexterity.

Police said the four accused, identified as Anil Ramju Salat, Dhiru Kalobhai Salat, Sameerbhai Salat, and Raju Kumar, are residents of Anand district in Gujarat. They were apprehended in the Hastings area following a probe triggered by a complaint lodged at Jorasanko Police Station. Officers revealed that the arrests were linked to a separate mobile theft investigation.

A few days earlier, Mohammad Shahnawaz and Mohammad Sameer had been arrested from the Park Street area in connection with a mobile phone theft case registered at Girish Park Police Station.

During interrogation, crucial leads reportedly emerged, pointing investigators toward the four men now in custody. Sources within the police indicated that the accused were not operating in isolation.

Preliminary findings suggest the existence of a wider network running similar operations not only in Kolkata but potentially in other cities as well. “The investigation is ongoing. We are looking into possible interstate links and identifying other members of the gang,” a senior officer said.

The case has sparked concern among residents, particularly those accustomed to encountering costumed religious figures at traffic junctions. While many such performers are genuine, police have urged citizens to remain cautious and alert in crowded public spaces.

Authorities are now examining whether the group is connected to other unsolved pickpocketing and mobile theft incidents reported in recent months.