Siliguri, 07th December: An attempted theft by a youth posing as a ‘sadhu’ was foiled in the Uttar Ektiasal area of Siliguri, after he was caught red-handed and beaten by local residents. The incident created panic in the neighbourhood.
According to local sources, three to four youths were roaming the area disguised as ‘sadhus’ and were visiting different houses.
One of the youths entered a house and initially spoke a woman. He then began talking about God and tried to influence her by making fake predictions about her future.
After the woman donated ₹100, the youth asked her to remove her gold chain in the name of giving blessings. When the woman handed over the chain and the youth attempted to flee, family members and locals grew suspicious and caught him. The accused was then beaten, while his accomplices managed to escape from the spot.
Police from the Ashighar Outpost reached the scene and detained the accused, taking him to the police station.
An investigation has been launched into the incident, and efforts are underway to trace the other suspects involved.