Archive · 3 Sep 2026
Emerald Muruga Idol Stolen Despite Strong Temple Security
A valuable emerald idol was stolen from a temple near Madhuranthagam.
The idol represented Lord Muruga and was 2.25 feet tall.
It was believed to be worth several crores of rupees.
The temple had three doors, alarms and cameras to protect it.
The burglars broke all three doors.
They also cut the alarm connections and covered the cameras with paint.
Priests found the idol missing when they arrived.
Police are now examining evidence and searching for the thieves.
An emerald idol of Sri Maragatha Bala Dhandayudhapani Murugan was stolen from a temple in Perunkarunai village on Tuesday night.
The 2.25-foot idol was fully made of emerald and valued at several crores of rupees.
Burglars broke through three security doors, severed the siren connections and sprayed paint on CCTV cameras.
Priests discovered the broken doors and missing idol when they arrived at the temple.
Sithamur police collected forensic evidence, brought sniffer dogs and formed two special teams to investigate.
- Who
- Unknown burglars stole the idol; Sithamur police are investigating.
- What
- A fully emerald idol of Sri Maragatha Bala Dhandayudhapani Murugan was stolen.
- When
- Tuesday night.
- Where
- A temple in Perunkarunai village near Madhuranthagam in Chengalpet district, with the report datelined Chennai.
- Why
- The reason for the theft was not stated.
- Stolen item
- Sri Maragatha Bala Dhandayudhapani Murugan idol
- Material
- Emerald
- Height
- 2.25 feet
- Estimated value
- Several crores of rupees
- Security breached
- Three doors, siren connections and CCTV cameras
- Evidence collected
- Fingerprints and other forensic evidence
- Police response
- Two special police teams were formed