Tirumala Gold Chain Theft Case: Woman Arrested

Tirupati District Police Arrest Woman in Tirumala Gold Chain Theft Case

Tirumala gold chain theft case sees a breakthrough after Tirumala Town Police arrested a 56-year-old woman accused of drugging a 72-year-old devotee and stealing her gold mangalsutra chain.

The arrest was made under the supervision of District SP L. Subbarayudu IPS. The incident dates back to 28-01-2020, when the elderly woman had come to Tirumala for darshan.

Background of the Incident

According to police, the accused targeted the victim near Sri Bedi Anjaneyaswamy Temple at around 7:30 am.

She allegedly mixed sedative tablets in tea and offered it to the elderly devotee. After the victim lost consciousness, the accused fled with a gold thaali chain weighing approximately 73 grams.

A case was registered at Tirumala-1 Town Police Station. Authorities began a detailed probe under the supervision of senior officers.

Tirumala Gold Chain Theft Case Investigation

In the Tirumala gold chain theft case, police traced the accused on 02-03-2026 near the Tirumala HT Complex parking area. During questioning, she reportedly confessed to the crime.

Officials seized approximately 8.4 grams of gold chain, eight sleeping pills, an iron cutter, a saree, and other materials from her possession.

The accused was identified as Valli, aged 56, wife of F. Bujjibabu, originally from Jansi Nagar in Guntur district. Investigation revealed she was temporarily residing in East Tamil Nadu.

Police registered cases under Sections 379 and 328 of the Indian Penal Code. She has been remanded to judicial custody.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident reported earlier in our coverage of a temple area theft incident in Tirupati district, authorities had highlighted similar tactics used by offenders. Readers can also review our report on devotee safety advisory in Tirumala during the peak darshan season for preventive measures.

Public Advisory to Devotees

Police have urged devotees visiting Tirumala not to accept food, drinks, or medicines from strangers.

They also requested the public to immediately inform Dial 112 or nearby police officials if they notice suspicious individuals.

The Tirumala gold chain theft case has once again prompted authorities to reinforce awareness among pilgrims to prevent similar crimes.