Agartala, May 07, 2025: A daring theft at around 25 shops in a single night has sent shockwaves through the Chandranagar market in Uttar Bharat under Belonia police station of South Tripura district. Thieves made off with goods and cash worth approximately ₹4 lakh, leaving behind a trail of broken locks, looted shops, and shaken traders.

According to reports, the incident occurred late last night when a group of unidentified miscreants broke open the locks of about 24 to 25 shops. They ransacked cash boxes and stole valuables including cash and merchandise. In one instance, when the thieves failed to break a lock, they reportedly poured petrol into it in an attempt to force it open.

On being informed, the police arrived at the scene along with a forensic team to gather evidence. A dog squad was also summoned as part of the investigation. However, the response did little to calm the aggrieved shopkeepers, who strongly criticized the police’s role in preventing such crimes.

“The thefts were planned and carried out in the dead of night. It’s hard to believe that the police were patrolling the area, or such a large-scale crime couldn’t have happened unnoticed,” said one of the shopkeepers. Another added, “We demand immediate action. The thieves must be caught and punished severely.”

In the course of investigation, the police recovered two iron rods and a pair of shoes from the scene, suspected to be left behind by the culprits. The incident has sparked fear among the residents and traders of Chandranagar market, who are now demanding increased night patrolling and swift justice.

“The entire market is in a state of panic. We don’t feel safe anymore,” a trader lamented.

Police have assured that the matter is being investigated on priority.