Receiver of Stolen Temple Artefacts Arrested in Malinithan Theft Case
LIKABALI, July 18:
In a major breakthrough in the Malinithan Mandir theft case, the Lower Siang District Police have arrested a man from Assam for allegedly receiving stolen sacred artefacts taken from the historic temple.
The arrested accused has been identified as Muhammad Ali Hussain, a resident of 3 No. Gandhinagar, Sissiborgaon, Silapathar in Assam's Dhemaji district. According to police, Hussain had allegedly purchased the stolen sacred articles from the main accused, Toli Geyi.
Police said the accused had been constantly changing locations in an attempt to evade arrest. Acting on credible intelligence, a police team tracked him down and successfully apprehended him on 17 July 2026.
The operation was carried out under the close supervision of Abraham Taying, Officer-in-Charge of Likabali Police Station. The team was led by Sub-Inspector Kardo Ori, the Investigating Officer of the case.
Hussain has been arrested under Section 317(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for dishonestly receiving stolen property. Further investigation into the case is underway.
Appealing to the public, the Lower Siang District Police urged citizens, particularly scrap dealers and traders dealing in valuables or antiques, to verify the source of any suspicious or high-value items before making a purchase.
Police emphasized that the illegal market for stolen property encourages theft and burglary, and such crimes can be significantly reduced if stolen goods find no buyers.
Malinithan Mandir, one of Arunachal Pradesh's most revered archaeological and cultural landmarks, holds immense historical, spiritual, and cultural significance.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the temple's sanctity and preserving the state's rich heritage.
Authorities have also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities, stressing that community cooperation is vital in safeguarding the region's sacred heritage and ensuring public safety.
