BackLAW
Miscreants loot idols, vandalise Hanuman temple in Shillong; set fire to CCTV cameras before fleeing
Unidentified individuals broke into a Hanuman temple in Shillong's Garikhana around 1 am, looted idols and valuables, and set CCTV cameras on fire before escaping. The main idol was left untouched, and the theft was discovered during morning prayers; FIR was filed and police launched an investigation, with nearby CCTV footage aiding the probe. Residents expressed security concerns as authorities pledged enhanced patrolling.
Why It Matters
The incident highlights security vulnerabilities at religious sites and in busy urban areas, prompting police investigations and enhanced patrols to prevent recurrence.
Timeline
6 Events
Residents express concern; authorities pledge enhanced security
May 10, 2026
Residents of Garikhana and neighbouring Jhalupara questioned security arrangements and night patrolling, with authorities promising improved security measures to prevent further incidents.
Police register case; investigation launched; patrols increased
May 10, 2026
Police registered a case and launched an investigation, examining available footage and leads to identify those involved, while increasing patrols and assuring residents of enhanced security measures.
Nearby CCTV footage captures suspects escaping; footage submitted to police
May 10, 2026
Surveillance cameras from nearby houses captured visuals of the suspects fleeing; these recordings were submitted to the police as part of the complaint.
FIR filed by Ravi Sharma; police investigate
May 10, 2026
An FIR filed by Ravi Sharma was cited in police statements, with Lumdiengjri police station taking up the case and beginning an investigation.
Morning discovery of theft; main idol untouched
May 10, 2026
During routine morning prayers, temple authorities discovered the theft; the main idol inside the shrine was found to be untouched.
Break-in at Hanuman temple; idols and valuables looted; CCTV cameras set on fire
May 10, 2026
Around 1 am on May 10, 2026, unidentified miscreants broke open a side entrance of the Hanuman Mandir in Garikhana, Shillong, ransacked the premises, and stole idols of Lord Krishna and Radha, a smaller idol of Lord Hanuman, silver ornaments, brass ritual items, and cash from the donation box. They also set fire to CCTV cameras inside and outside the temple to destroy evidence, leaving the main idol untouched.