- FIR registered, CCTV footage under scrutiny as police intensify investigation
- Business community fears repeat thefts could hurt investment and livelihoods
Srinagar, Aug 6: A major burglary was reported from north Kashmir’s Baramulla district after unidentified thieves allegedly broke through the wall of a copperware shop in Hyderbeigh market, Pattan, and fled with copper utensils and other valuables worth nearly ₹30 lakh, police and the shop owner said on Thursday.
The theft took place during the intervening night at Malik Copper House, a well-known copperware outlet in Hyderbeigh Main Market. According to the owner, Suhail Malik, son of Shakeel Malik and a resident of Singhpora, Pattan, the burglars entered the shop by creating an opening in the rear wall before stealing nearly 20 traditional copper samovars and other valuable copper items.
Soon after receiving information, a police team from the concerned Palhallanpolice station rushed to the spot and secured the area. A team from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) also visited the shop to collect evidence and assist investigators in identifying those behind the burglary.
A senior police official at Police Post Palhallan confirmed to Kashmir Horizon that an FIR has been registered and an investigation has been initiated into the incident.
“The investigation is underway. CCTV footage from the surrounding area is being collected and examined to identify the accused and establish the sequence of events,” the official said.
The incident has triggered concern among traders in the Hyderbeigh market, who said the latest burglary is part of a series of thefts reported from the commercial hub over the past few years. They alleged that at least two to three similar theft incidents have occurred earlier, creating insecurity among shopkeepers.
Local traders and residents appealed to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla and Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Pattan to personally monitor the investigation and ensure the burglars are identified and arrested at the earliest.
Abdul Ahad Yattoo, a social activist, termed the incident “deeply unfortunate” and said repeated thefts have raised concerns among traders and residents. He alleged that the market lacks adequate night watchmen and sufficient CCTV surveillance, making commercial establishments vulnerable to burglaries.
Another local, MehrajUd Din Ganai, said the police should thoroughly examine CCTV footage from the area to identify those involved.
“Alleging that thefts have become a recurring problem in the market. Many traders invest their life savings or borrow money to establish businesses, and such incidents threaten their livelihoods,” he added.
The locals urged Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla to personally monitor the investigation and ensure that those responsible are identified and arrested at the earliest.
They also called for stronger night patrolling, installation of additional CCTV cameras and deployment of night watchmen to restore confidence among the trading community.
They said repeated thefts could adversely affect business confidence and discourage investment in the market if adequate security measures are not put in place. The traders also urged the police to strengthen night patrolling and enhance surveillance in the area to prevent such incidents in future.
