Gang of Panchaloha idols smugglers held
Mahabubnagar, Nov 23 (INN): Shadnagar police on Tuesday busted a gang who involved in selling the Panchaloha idols worth lakhs of rupees in the international market. According to police, SP Sudheer Babu, on a tip-off, conducted raids on vehicles transporting the Panchaloha idols from Kanigiri in Prakasham district. The police stopped a two-wheeler in which a 19th Century Panchaloha idol, weighing about 11 kg was being transported. On interrogation, the driver confessed to have been stolen the idol. He further revealed the names of 12 other persons who were involved in smuggling the idols.
On his instance, the remaining 12 members of the gang were named. The police also seized 13 motorcycles being used for smuggling the idol. The police later informed Archeological Department of the seizure who ascertained the value of seized Buddha idol. According to sources, the Panchaloha idol was worth Rs 60 lakh in the international market. A case has been registered at Shadnagar Police Station.
News Posted: 23 November, 2010
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