COIMBATORE: A gang of five masked, armed robbers, broke into a house in Jagadish Nagar, Seeranaickenpalayam, and assaulted one of its occupants, before escaping with gold jewels and cash in the early hours of Tuesday.
Police sources privy to the investigation said that the complainant R Umadevi (55), was staying with her son R Udhayakumar and his wife, a two-year-old grandson, and a maid. Umadevi’s husband, owner of a travel agency, had recently gone abroad.
Around 1 am on Tuesday, a five member gang, wearing balaclavas and gloves, broke into the house through a side entrance. One of the men was also carrying a machete, police said.
The men threatened Umadevi and stole 22 sovereigns in gold, a few diamond jewels, and cash believed to be up to `1 lakh. Umadevi’s son, Udhayakumar, who had heard the commotion, locked himself inside his room, located on the top floor, and began shouting for help. Soon, the gang escaped with the valuables.
Police said that the gang had assaulted Umadevi with a weapon, and had caused her blunt injuries. The injuries are not believed to be serious. She has been admitted to a private hospital for treatment.
Inspector of Police (in-charge of RS Puram), M Panchalingam, rushed to the spot after getting information about the theft, and began investigations. He told Express that a case was registered under Section 397 (Robbery, or dacoity, with attempt to cause death or grievous hurt) of the IPC. Police have recovered a machete which was left behind at the scene of crime. Sniffer dogs and forensics experts were pressed into service.
In another incident, two persons, who came to a house in Neelikonampalayam near Singanallur, seeking donations for a temple, threatened a young woman and her child at knife point, and escaped with around 30 sovereigns in gold on Tuesday noon.
Police said the victim M Mansi (28), and her 8-month-old infant, were alone at home when the incident occurred. The two men stole the jewels from a locker inside the house, after forcing Mansi to open it. Singanallur police have registered a case and are investigating.
Police said that special teams have been formed to solve both cases.
