Days after a head constable was caught stealing money and gold from the Delhi Police Special Cell’s malkhana (store room) on Lodhi Road, the unit has begun a complete audit of its key facilities. This includes not only the malkhana but also the weapons room and Police General Store. Meanwhile, the officer in charge of the malkhana is under inquiry, as he was reportedly asleep during the theft.
Details About The Incident
Head constable Khursheed, who had been second in command at the malkhana for over 18 months, was arrested on Saturday. He allegedly used a duplicate key to sneak into the store in the early hours and escape with cash and jewellery worth crores. He had been transferred to the northeast district on May 24 but was still familiar with the Lodhi Road premises.
Details About The Investigation
“We found over ₹80 lakh in cash and two boxes of gold jewellery missing,” said a senior police officer. “Initially, we believed he struck twice in the last 45 days, but now suspect more than three thefts.” Police say some items might have been used to repay debts.
The audit now extends beyond the malkhana. “The general store holds drones, anti-riot gear, communication and protective equipment, laptops and more. If he could access the malkhana, other rooms may have been compromised,” another officer said. So far, the weapons room hasn’t shown any missing items.
According to investigators, Khursheed made a copy of the malkhana key last year and used it at least three times. Although he had already been transferred, he entered the building around 3 a.m. on Saturday without alerting security. “He entered around 3 am and exited an hour later with a bag of cash and jewellery,” said an officer.
A formal inquiry is underway against the malkhana in-charge. Senior officers, including ACPs and the DCP, have also been asked to explain how the theft went unnoticed. Past audit records are being re-examined, as previous thefts were missed. “This too is part of the probe,” a second officer added.
