Brave Police Thwart Shop Burglary in Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor: Four Arrested After Intense Three-Hour Drama

In a dramatic turn of events in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, an armed special police unit interrupted a burglary at a children’s store, detaining four individuals while three managed to evade capture. The incident unfolded on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, on DI Road, an area bustling within the Chittoor Corporation limits. According to witnesses, an ensemble of six young men, allegedly orchestrated by a local trader, attempted the heist with a mini-van conspicuously marked with a “Press” sticker at around 7:00 a.m.

The targeted shop, located near an IDBI bank branch, spans two floors with the proprietor, Chandrasekhar, residing on the third. As the intruders scaled the roof to gain entry, Chandrasekhar witnessed their approach and promptly alerted the urban police. Before help could arrive, the intruders brandished what is believed to be a fake pistol, threatening the owner and inflicting a head injury, leaving him bleeding. To avoid capture, they quickly retreated into the shop as police were seen approaching.

Chaos ensued when the alleged leader—a local trader with a known rivalry with Chandrasekhar—attempted to escape by leaping to a neighboring building. He miscalculated, fell, and sustained injuries. Amid a gathering crowd, the police, assisted by locals, apprehended three more suspects as they tried to flee, while at least two others managed to slip away. Conflicting reports suggest up to three may be at large.

The police, uncertain if the gang carried real firearms, initiated contact with an Octopus team, a unit adept in special operations, based in Tirumala. Meanwhile, Superintendent of Police V.N. Manikantha Chandolu, who actively participated in the operation, led local officers to complete the round-up before external reinforcements arrived.

Authorities seized the mini-van and two firearms linked to the crime; however, examinations are underway to determine if these were authentic or replicas. Those apprehended are now undergoing questioning at the One-Town police station. The shop owner received outpatient care for his injuries at the Government District Hospital.

Preliminary investigations reveal the group possibly comprised three individuals from Anantapur and three from Nandyal district. Law enforcement has refuted speculation about their origins being Karnataka or other states, following inquiries from various circles. The daring daylight intervention by police has drawn significant attention online, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by local law enforcement in combating such crimes.

Published on March 12, 2025, at 12:04 p.m. IST, this incident highlights ongoing security concerns while emphasizing the need for vigilant policing in urban areas. As the search continues for any remaining fugitives, Chittoor citizens remain alert, and the story of this thwarted burglary draws significant interest across digital platforms.

Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/police-foil-shop-burglary-in-andhra-pradeshs-chittoor-four-nabbed-after-three-hour-high-drama/article69320381.ece
Category : Andhra Pradesh
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Publish Date: 2025-03-12 12:04:00