Bolangir Maid Arrested for Rs 25 Lakh Gold Theft Ahead of Nuakhai Festival

In a startling case of theft ahead of the Nuakhai festival, Bolangir district police have arrested a domestic help accused of stealing gold ornaments worth approximately Rs 25 lakh and Rs 40,000 in cash from her employer’s residence in Kantabanji town.

The accused, Madhuri Podh of Tengara village under Muribahal police limits, had been working at the home of Nasima Tamsum in Ashrampada for several months.

The theft was reported just days before the festival, prompting swift action from Kantabanji police.

Following interrogation, officers recovered stolen gold items—including two necklaces, a chain, and two bangles—from Madhuri’s residence.

Investigations revealed she had exchanged the stolen gold at multiple jewellery shops to acquire other ornaments. Shopkeepers involved have been summoned for questioning.

Station Officer Rashmita Behera confirmed that a case under IPC Section 312 has been registered. Madhuri was produced in court, where her bail plea was rejected. She has since been remanded to judicial custody.

The incident has sparked concern among residents, especially as festive preparations intensify across the region.