Powai cleaner held for theft of gold hidden behind washroom mirror

Recovery behind a mirror

In a curious twist, a stolen cache of gold ornaments was discovered tucked behind a washroom mirror in Powai, leading the police straight to a cleaner employed in the same premises. The accused, whose identity has not been officially confirmed, was taken into custody after the recovery.

The breakthrough came during a routine search when officers noticed the mirror in a common washroom appeared slightly ajar. On closer inspection, they found the missing gold pieces carefully concealed in the gap between the mirror and the wall.

How the trail led to the cleaner

The theft was reported by a resident of a high-rise in Powai, who noticed their gold jewellery missing from their flat. Initial inquiries by the local police did not yield immediate results, but forensic and circumstantial evidence pointed towards the cleaning staff who had access to multiple floors.

When confronted, the cleaner reportedly broke down and admitted to the theft. Police sources say the accused had stashed the gold behind the washroom mirror intending to retrieve it later and sell it off.

Police confirm recovery, probe on

Officials from the Powai police station have confirmed the arrest and the recovery of the stolen items. They have not yet disclosed the exact value of the gold, but sources indicate it runs into several lakh rupees.

The accused has been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code pertaining to theft. Further questioning is underway to ascertain whether this was a one-off act or part of a larger pattern involving other households in the area.

Residents urged to stay vigilant

Local authorities have advised residents to be cautious while hiring domestic help and to verify credentials through proper channels. The incident has sparked conversations within the housing society about tightening access to service areas.

The cleaner remains in police custody, and the recovered gold is set to be returned to the rightful owner after legal formalities are completed. The investigation is ongoing, and police are checking if any other similar complaints in the vicinity remain unsolved.