Gopalganj Thawe Temple Theft: 10-Foot Railway Track and Crores Worth of Idols Recovered, Major Gang Exposed

Gopalganj, Bihar: The investigation into the high-profile theft at Thawe Durga Temple has uncovered startling new details. The thieves, besides looting the Thawe temple, had also stolen idols worth crores from Chhapra. Remarkably, authorities recovered a 10-foot-long railway track from their possession, highlighting the scale of the criminal network involved.

Police Recover Valuable Ashtadhatu Idols
During an extensive raid at the house of a fugitive thief, police recovered two priceless Ashtadhatu (eight-metal) idols of Lord Shri Ram and Mata Sita, reportedly stolen from a Chhapra temple. The idols, considered antiques, weigh approximately 3.58 kg and 3.562 kg respectively. Sources estimate their combined market value could reach ₹11 crore internationally, though police have not officially confirmed the price.

In the raid, officers also found several objectionable items, railway track segments, a locally made firearm (desi katta), and other paraphernalia linked to the gang’s criminal activities.

Details of the Thawe Temple Heist
On the night of 17–18 December, thieves broke into the Thawe Durga Temple, stealing a gold necklace, a gold crown, and a ceremonial umbrella adorning the deity. So far, police have arrested two suspects, while the third fugitive, Sharif Alam alias Sharif Sain of Arar Mod, remains at large. A reward has been announced for information leading to his capture.

Network Behind the Thefts
The gang’s operations extend beyond Thawe. During interrogation, Sharif Sain’s 22-year-old wife, Shabba Khatoon, and his 47-year-old mother, Madina Khatoon, were also taken into custody. Police are probing the network’s wider connections, especially after discovering the railway track, which points to a larger criminal operation.

Previously, police had apprehended Deepak Rai from Ghazipur, UP, and Ijamul Alam from Motihari, seizing parts of the stolen crown. The search for the gang’s third member and other accomplices continues, with law enforcement conducting coordinated raids to dismantle the network.

This latest development underscores the sophistication of temple theft operations in the region and highlights the ongoing efforts by Bihar Police and RPF to bring all culprits to justice.