Raipur
A joint team of City Kotwali Police and the Cyber Cell has solved a high-profile mobile theft case, arresting two accused and recovering 16 iPhones worth around ₹14.15 lakh.
The main accused, Akash Chauhan (19), was arrested while trying to escape on a train from Raipur. Police investigations revealed that he was also involved in a previous theft at a mobile shop in Boirdadar earlier this year.
Details of the Incident
The theft took place on the night of 9 March 2026 at “Sale Spot” mobile shop, located opposite Gopi Talkies in Raigarh. The shop owner, Mohammad Farooq, a resident of Laxmipur, said he had closed the shop at 9:30 PM.
When he returned the next morning at 10 AM, he found the shop ransacked.
According to the complaint, an unknown thief entered by breaking the lock of the second-floor door. The entry point was accessible through an iron ladder placed near an under-construction building. The thief stole 16 iPhones from the display showcase and cash from the counter.
Following the complaint, City Kotwali Police registered a case under Sections 305 and 331(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Police Action and Recovery
Senior Superintendent of Police Shashi Mohan Singh formed a special investigation team consisting of Kotwali Police and Cyber Cell officials. The team analysed CCTV footage and technical surveillance, which helped them trace the suspect’s location to Raipur.
Police reached Raipur Railway Station and identified the suspect boarding a Raigarh-bound train. Officers intercepted the train and arrested Akash Chauhan during the journey.
During interrogation, Chauhan confessed to the crime and also admitted his involvement in a previous theft at Saha Mobile shop in Boirdadar in January 2026.
Police recovered 15 iPhones and a motorcycle from his possession.
Later, the second accused, Lakeshwar alias Lucky Chandra (21), was arrested from Sonumuda, after the remaining iPhone was recovered from him.
Official Statement
SSP Shashi Mohan Singh said that strict action will be taken against those involved in theft and property-related crimes in Raigarh district. He added that technical evidence and surveillance are being used to quickly solve such cases and urged citizens to report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.
Both accused have been sent to judicial remand. Police will also seek separate remand for Akash Chauhan to further investigate the earlier theft case registered at Chakradharnagar Police Station.
