The Kandivali police arrested an artisan for allegedly stealing Rs9.39 lakh from the house of imitation jewellery maker and employer Riyaz Ahmed Sheikh. The accused has been identified as Sabir Mohammad Hadish Ali, 33.
According to the FIR, Sheikh lives in Kandivali and operates an imitation jewellery factory on the ground floor of his house, where three artisans, including the accused Ali, worked and often slept overnight. Ali had been working with Sheikh for the past 15 years. Recently, Sheikh’s nephew sold his Malvani house for Rs15 lakh and gave Sheikh Rs9 lakh, which he stored in a bag under his bed, along with an additional Rs39,000.
On February 2, Shaikh went to a relative’s wedding in Sewri with his family, leaving their house unlocked as he trusted his employees. Seizing the opportunity, the artisan stole the entire sum of money. When Sheikh needed cash on February 5, he checked the bag and found it missing. Upon questioning his artisans, all denied any knowledge of the theft.
Meanwhile, Ali’s sudden departure to his village raised Sheikh’s suspicions, prompting him to file a complaint with the Kandivali police. After registering the complaint, the police investigated and arrested Ali on February 14. During interrogation, Ali confessed to the theft. The police are working to recover the stolen amount, and Ali remains in custody.
