Shop employee among six held as Karachi police solve Rs310m jewellery heist

Police claimed on Tueaday to have solved the case of what they described as the biggest burglary in Karachi’s history within 48 hours, arresting all suspects and recovering stolen valuables.

According to officials, District West police apprehended those involved in a break-in at a jewellery shop in Iqbal Market, Orangi Town, and recovered stolen ornaments including gold and silver weighing 7,064 grams, valued at more than Rs310 million.

Deputy Inspector General (West Zone) Irfan Baloch said that a six-member gang, including the alleged mastermind identified as Irfan, had been arrested. He added that jewellery taken during the burglary was recovered from the suspects’ hideout.

Police said the suspects gained access to the shop’s safe by cutting through a wall and made off with gold, silver and diamonds. Technical investigation later revealed that a shop employee had played a role in facilitating the crime.

Officials said that the employee, Amir, who had worked at the shop for 15 years, helped by duplicating keys and marking the wall for entry.

Authorities also seized a grinder used in the burglary, weapons, a motorcycle and mobile phones believed to have been used in the operation. Police said the planning of the incident began about six months ago.

The suspects have been handed over to investigators for further legal proceedings.