A major burglary was reported at the Kalleli Shiva Chamundi temple, near Konni, in Pathanamthitta early on Sunday, with burglars decamping with gold ornaments and around ₹20,000 in cash. The total loss is estimated at around ₹3.5 lakh.

According to temple authorities, the burglars broke open the temple and forced open a room where the gold offerings were kept. The stolen items include 22 gold thalis, five gold pottu ornaments, gold figurines and other valuables. Around ₹20,000 kept in the temple’s Annadanam donation box was also stolen.

The theft came to light when the chief priest arrived to open the temple in the morning. He immediately alerted the temple management, following which officials informed the Konni police.

Th police reached the spot and launched an investigation. Investigators also recovered a bunch of keys near the temple premises, which is suspected to have been used by the burglar.

Police said they have received initial leads regarding the suspect and have intensified the investigation.

Published - July 12, 2026 07:06 pm IST