SHOPIAN — Police in Shopian have arrested seven persons in connection with an apple theft case and recovered 83 stolen apple boxes besides seizing three vehicles allegedly used in the commission of the crime, officials said on Wednesday.
They said Police Station Heerpora received information about the theft of apple boxes from an orchard and shed belonging to one Mohd Yousuf Wagay, a resident of Amshipora.
Acting swiftly, a police team, with the assistance of local residents, intercepted three Tata Mobile vehicles a short distance from the spot and apprehended all seven accused while they were allegedly fleeing with the stolen property, they said.
During the operation, 83 stolen apple boxes were recovered and all three vehicles used in the crime were seized, officials added.
The arrested persons have been identified as Gulzar Ahmad Mallah, Reyaz Ahmad Lone, Muzamil Ahmad Wani, Ashiq Hussain Lone, Umar Hussain Wani, Tehzeel Ahmad Lone and Shahid Ahmad Wani, all residents of different areas of Keller.
In this regard, FIR No. 126/2026 under Sections 331(4) and 305 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been registered at Police Station Heerpora, and further investigation has been taken up. — (KIMS)