Bengaluru, Nov 5:
The thieves also took a silver medal from the 1982 Asian Games, bronze medals from the 1986 Asian Games and the 1982 Champions Trophy, along with jewellery, silverware and ₹30,000 in cash. The total value of the stolen property has been estimated at ₹3.53 lakh.
Somaya said he had left Bengaluru with his family for their native place in Kodagu on October 25. The house was unoccupied when two unidentified men allegedly broke open the front door at around 2.34 a.m. on October 28. Neighbours noticed the open door at around 7.15 a.m. and alerted the family. CCTV footage from a neighbouring residence reportedly captured two men entering the house.
Somaya, who represented India at the 1980, 1984 and 1988 Olympic Games, captained the national team at the Seoul Olympics in 1988. He received the Arjuna Award in 1985. Describing the stolen Olympic medal as an irreplaceable possession, he said it represented years of dedication and service to the country. He also highlighted its significance as India’s last Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey.
The Indiranagar Police have registered a case under Sections 331(4) and 305 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. Investigators are examining CCTV footage to identify the suspects and recover the stolen property. Two special teams have been formed to trace the accused, Deputy Commissioner of Police (East Division) Vikram Amte said.
Somaya has written to Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, seeking intervention to ensure a thorough and time-bound investigation. He urged the State government to sensitise the police to the national significance of the stolen Olympic medal and ensure that all necessary resources are deployed to recover it.