Hubballi, Karnataka: A shocking case of impersonation and robbery has surfaced in Hubballi, where a five-member gang posed as Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials and looted gold ornaments worth over ₹3 crore from a Kerala-based jeweller.
The incident occurred on Neeligin Road near Chennamma Circle last Thursday but came to light only later when the victim complained to the Hubballi Suburban Police Station.
The Incident
According to police sources, the victim, identified as Sudheen, had traveled from Mangaluru with his associate Vivek to visit jewellery shops in Belagavi, Gokak, Dharwad, and Hubballi.
On November 19, while walking with Vivek in Hubballi, the gang intercepted them, claiming to be ED officers.
The men allegedly forced Sudheen and Vivek into a vehicle, instructed them to remain silent, and later dropped Vivek near Kittur.
Sudheen was taken further and eventually abandoned near MK Hubballi, while the gang fled with gold ornaments valued at ₹3.2 crore.
Police Response
Hubballi police have registered a case and launched an investigation. DCP (Law & Order) Mahaning Nandagavi confirmed that three special teams have been formed to trace the culprits.
These teams are pursuing leads across Karnataka and Maharashtra, including Mangaluru, where the jeweller had earlier conducted business.
Authorities suspect the gang had prior knowledge of Sudheen’s movements and targeted him deliberately.
Wider Concerns
The incident has raised concerns about criminals exploiting the identity of enforcement agencies to intimidate and rob unsuspecting victims. Police have urged traders and the public to verify credentials before complying with demands from individuals claiming to be government officials.