Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh

Chandigarh Police have arrested a boyfriend-girlfriend duo for allegedly stealing ₹12.5 lakh in cash and gold coins from a car parked outside a house in Manimajra. Police have recovered ₹5.5 lakh so far and are investigating their possible involvement in a separate ₹1 crore cash theft at a jewellery shop in Sector 17.

The accused have been identified as Nitesh (27) and his girlfriend Simran. According to police, Nitesh is originally from Bihar and had been living in Jagatpura, while Simran, a native of Tarn Taran in Punjab, resides in Maloya Colony.

Investigators said the couple targeted a car belonging to Manpreet Walia, which was parked outside his residence in Manimajra. The vehicle reportedly contained around ₹12.5 lakh in cash and gold coins. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the accused allegedly stole the valuables and fled.

Following the complaint, Manimajra police launched an investigation using technical surveillance and other leads. The probe led officers to Nitesh and Simran, who were arrested on Wednesday.

During questioning, police discovered a possible connection between the duo and the recent theft of nearly ₹1 crore in cash from a jewellery shop in Sector 17. Authorities are now examining their role in both cases and searching for the remaining stolen cash and gold coins.

Police revealed that Simran allegedly conducted reconnaissance of potential targets, after which the couple jointly executed the thefts. Nitesh has been remanded to three days of police custody for further interrogation.

Officials are also verifying the criminal backgrounds of both accused as the investigation continues.