Archive · 28 Aug 2026
Three arrested after Penta Shiva Temple theft in Rayagada
A temple in Rayagada district was robbed during the night of August 25.
The priest had locked the temple after evening prayers.
The next morning, he found that the main lock had been broken.
Thieves took idols and other objects used for worship.
Police investigated the case and arrested three men.
They recovered several idols and other stolen items.
Police also seized two vehicles believed to have been used in the theft.
The incident has increased concerns about security at rural temples.
Three suspects were arrested over the theft at Penta Shiva Temple in Rayagada district.
The temple was broken into after the priest locked it around 10 pm on August 25.
Stolen items included metal idols of Shiva and Parvati, bells, buckets and handbells.
Police recovered several idols, broken brass and copper articles, cash and a jute bag.
An auto-rickshaw and motorcycle allegedly used in the theft were also seized.
- Who
- Chandili police arrested Manoj Durga, Pawan Ganta and Allu Harekrishna in connection with the theft.
- What
- The Penta Shiva Temple was broken into and idols and other worship articles were stolen.
- When
- The theft occurred during the night of August 25; it was discovered the following morning.
- Where
- Penta Shiva Temple, under Chandili police jurisdiction in Rayagada district, Odisha.
- Why
- The articles were stolen from the temple; police said the suspects provided information leading to additional recoveries.
- Temple
- Penta Shiva Temple
- Police jurisdiction
- Chandili police station
- Recovered Shiva idol
- 13.96 kg metal idol
- Recovered Parvati idol
- 7.26 kg metal idol
- Recovered serpent deity idol
- 5.62 kg brass idol of a five-faced serpent deity
- Cash recovered
- Rs 1,250
- Vehicles seized
- One auto-rickshaw and one motorcycle