Gujarat thief prays, rings temple bell before stealing it in viral video

A man has been caught on CCTV offering prayers before stealing a bell and other items from a temple in Gujarat. The video of the incident, which took place on August 21, has since gone viral on social media.The theft reportedly took place at the Swastikarta Hanumanji Temple in Surat.The CCTV footage shows the man entering the temple and offering prayers before placing his bag in a corner. He then rings the temple bell and looks around to check whether anyone is watching.Once satisfied that the area is clear, he removes the heavy temple bell and keeps it with him. Instead of immediately fleeing, the man walks back towards the temple’s main entrance, folds his hands, bows before the deity and then leaves.The suspect allegedly also stole money from the donation box and took away other items from the temple. Two people can be seen sitting a short distance away in the temple premises. The man allegedly carried out the theft without attracting their attention.A voice heard in the circulated footage appeals to the public in Gujarati to contact locals if they recognise the suspect.The temple committee and local residents have informed the police. Investigators are examining the CCTV footage to identify and trace the man.- Ends(With inputs from Sanjay Rathod)Published By: Aprameya RaoPublished On: Aug 25, 2026 15:48 IST