Pune: In a shocking incident, thieves broke into the Shri Bhairavnath Mata Jogeshwari Temple in Shingwe (Tal. Ambegaon) and stole an estimated ₹50000 from the donation box.

The theft occurred on Friday (July 12) at midnight, sparking anxiety among residents, especially since drones had been spotted in the area prior to the incident.

The thieves entered the temple by breaking the steel grill and glass window on the eastern side, then broke the lock on the donation box and took the money.

Ramchandra Gurav, the temple priest, discovered the theft when he arrived for the morning prayer on Saturday (July 13) at 5 AM and noticed the open window and missing lock.

Assistant Police Inspector Netaji Gandhare from Pargaon Police Station promptly visited the temple to inspect the scene. Due to non-functional CCTV cameras in the temple, footage from village-installed CCTV cameras was reviewed. A dog squad and fingerprint experts have been enlisted to aid in the investigation.

Residents' Fear Heightened by Drone Sightings

In recent days, drones have been reported flying at night in the area, which has caused concern among residents. The theft following these drone sightings has intensified their fears.

Villages in the eastern part of Ambegaon taluka, including Pondevadi, Khadakvadi, Dhamani, Pahaddara, Avasari Budruk, Jarkarvadi, Mengadevadi, Nirgudsar, Avasari Khurd, Vadgaon Kashimbeg, as well as some villages in Shirur and Haveli talukas, have reported sightings of unidentified drones flying high at night..

Despite repeated requests for an investigation, the administration has not addressed the issue seriously. MP Dr. Amol Kolhe has called for the state's Home Minister to provide an explanation in the Legislative Assembly.

Some villagers have captured videos of the drones and have been inquiring with the administration and police about their ownership and purpose. However, the administration has not taken serious action despite repeated requests. When drones are spotted at night, local youths attempt to chase them, but the drones fly too high to be caught.