Bhadrak Police have arrested two men in connection with a series of thefts targeting temples and Mutts across Bhadrak district, bringing relief to local communities that had expressed growing resentment over repeated incidents. The accused have been identified as Sheikh Mustaq (33) of Jaipur village in Kendrapara district, son of Sheikh Musharaf, and Mir Irfan (40) of Habibnagar under Dhamnagar NAC, son of Mir Yunus. According to investigators, Mustaq was directly involved in committing burglaries at religious sites, while Irfan purchased the stolen goods from him and arranged for their sale.
Police reported that several stolen articles, including brass utensils and ritual items used in temples, were recovered from the duo. A motorcycle allegedly used during the crimes was also seized. Authorities believe more individuals are linked to the racket, and efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining members.
Arrest During Night Patrol
The breakthrough occurred on the night of August 16, when Sub-Inspector Pradeep Nayak and Assistant Sub-Inspector Narendra Raut of Dhamnagar police were patrolling near Guhalia Chhak, close to Nayara petrol pump. Officers spotted two men on a motorcycle acting suspiciously. When signaled to stop, one suspect managed to flee, but police apprehended the other after a brief chase.
Dhamnagar Police have arrested two accused persons involved in a temple theft case under Dhamnagar PS limits. Stolen articles along with one motorcycle have been seized from their possession. Both accused have been forwarded to the Hon’ble Court. pic.twitter.com/5gEXP7yUd4
— Bhadrak Police (@SpBhadrak) August 18, 2025
The detained man identified himself as Sheikh Mustaq. During interrogation, he confessed to having committed multiple thefts at Mutts and temples in the region. He further revealed that the stolen items were handed over to his associate, Mir Irfan, who sold them. Acting on this lead, police arrested Irfan and recovered a large quantity of stolen puja materials from his residence.
Confession of Widespread Crimes
During questioning, the accused admitted involvement in burglaries across Dhamnagar, Bhandaripokhari, Jajpur Town, Binjharpur, and Alkund police station jurisdictions. Dhamnagar police have since alerted their counterparts in the respective districts to widen the investigation.
Long Criminal History
Police records indicate that Sheikh Mustaq is a habitual offender. He already faces over 20 serious criminal cases in Kendrapara district, including charges of loot, dacoity, and even murder. Officials believe his experience in organized crime made him a key player in orchestrating the temple thefts. Both accused have been produced in court, while Jajpur Town, Binjharpur, and Alkund police stations have filed remand applications to further question them.
Community Concerns and Police Vigilance
Over the past month, theft cases in the Dhamnagar and Bhandaripokhari areas had surged, with temples and Mutts increasingly targeted. The arrests are expected to reassure residents who had grown anxious over the safety of religious institutions.
Police have assured the public that the remaining members of the gang will soon be identified and arrested, and that surveillance around vulnerable religious sites has been intensified.
