Patna: Two teenage girls have been arrested after an attempted robbery at a jewellery store near Kurji Bridge in Digha area of Patna, where they allegedly used an intoxicating spray to incapacitate the shopkeeper before fleeing.
Incident at Maa Vaishno Jewellers
The incident took place at Maa Vaishno Jewellers, where shop owner Rajesh Kumar was attending to customers on Friday. According to police, the two accused entered the shop posing as customers and asked to see gold earrings.
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While Kumar was showing jewellery to a female customer, the duo allegedly attempted to distract him by asking for rings. As he turned away, one of them reportedly sprayed an intoxicating substance on his face, causing irritation and breathing discomfort to both the shopkeeper and a customer present inside.
Swift Reaction by Shopkeeper
Despite the sudden attack, the shopkeeper managed to secure the displayed jewellery and rushed out of the counter area. He then pulled down the shutter of the shop to prevent escape. In the process, the front glass panel of the store was damaged.
The commotion drew the attention of nearby residents, leading to a gathering outside the shop.
Escape and Arrest
Police said one of the girls managed to escape amid the chaos, while the other was caught inside the shop and handed over to the authorities after the arrival of the Digha police team.
Based on information provided during questioning, police conducted a late-night raid and arrested the second accused as well.
Investigation and Background
Preliminary investigation suggests that both girls are Class 12 pass-outs and students of the same coaching institute. They reportedly reside in separate areas, with one from Kurji and the other from the Diyara region.
Police also stated that one of the accused has a family background linked to a previous criminal case involving her father. Both have reportedly claimed financial hardship as the motive behind the attempted robbery.
Authorities are now investigating whether the duo acted independently or were influenced or assisted by any organised group.
