Jaipur Treasure Case Cracked: 5 Arrested, 66.4 kg Silver Recovered
In a significant breakthrough, the Manak Chowk police in Jaipur have arrested five individuals and recovered 66.4 kg of silver in connection with the alleged treasure discovered during the demolition of an old haveli in Tripolia Bazaar.
A Labourer’s Discovery Sparks a Chain of Events
On July 15, 2026, a report was lodged at the Manak Chowk police station regarding the demolition of a house at Vidyadhar Ka Rasta, Tripolia Bazaar. During the demolition, a labourer allegedly stumbled upon a treasure trove of valuables concealed in the old structure and debris. Instead of informing the house owner, the labourer allegedly shared the spoils with his associates.
A Trail of Clues Leads to the Accused
The police investigation revealed that the labourer and his associates had allegedly discovered around 10 to 15 silver ingots weighing approximately 40-45 kg, besides old gold and silver coins. Officials suspect that around 8,000 to 10,000 old silver coins and other valuables were part of the haul. The labourer, identified as Mahesh Malhotra alias Chhotu, allegedly divided the valuables among himself and his associates.
A Change in Lifestyle Raises Suspicion
The accused, who had previously worked as ordinary labourers, allegedly began displaying changes in spending patterns and living standards. As the incident had taken place nearly 10 months earlier, CCTV footage was no longer available, and the house had been completely demolished. The police relied on technical investigation, call detail records, informant networks, and surveillance of the suspects to gather information on their activities and financial status.
The Accused and the Recovered Silver
The arrested accused have been identified as Mahesh Malhotra (46), Jagdish Rajoria (51), Omprakash Khichi alias Pappu (54), and Rajni Malhotra (36), all residents of Mandi Khatikan, Ramganj, and Anuj Arora (28), a resident of Lakshminarayanpuri, Ramganj. Police recovered 66.400 kg of silver from their possession.
Investigation Continues
Interrogation of the accused is underway to determine the whereabouts of the remaining valuables and establish whether others were involved in the alleged misappropriation. The investigation is continuing, and the police are working to unravel the mystery of the treasure and the alleged involvement of others.
A Collaborative Effort
The Manak Chowk police team, along with the District Special Team (DST), Jaipur North, worked together to crack the case. The police used technical investigation, informant networks, and surveillance to gather information on the suspects’ activities and financial status. The collaboration between the police teams has led to a significant breakthrough in the case.
A Lesson in the Importance of Reporting Incidents
The incident highlights the importance of reporting incidents to the authorities immediately. Had the labourer informed the house owner or the police about the discovery, the treasure might have been recovered in its entirety, and the accused might not have had the opportunity to misappropriate the valuables.
A Continuing Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, and the police are working to recover the remaining valuables and establish the involvement of others. The case is a reminder of the importance of integrity and the consequences of misappropriating valuables.