Surathkal: Suspect with 18 theft cases arrested in Kordabbu Daivasthana donation box theft

Mangalore Today News Network

Surathkal, Aug 12, 2026: Surathkal police have arrested a 40-year-old man in connection with the theft of a donation box from the Kordabbu Daivasthana at Madhya Kodipady near Surathkal.

The arrested accused has been identified as Sukesh Naik (40), son of Ramachandra Naik of Bellappalli Kukkikatte, Mangala Mill area in Kukkehalli village of Udupi taluk.

The theft took place around 1:30 am on August 5. The accused allegedly broke open the door and window of the daivasthana using an iron weapon, entered the premises and stole the donation box. He reportedly fled with around Rs 15,000 in cash from the box.

A case was registered at the Surathkal police station, following which a special team was formed to trace the accused. Based on reliable information received on Monday, August 10, police detained Sukesh Naik at the Surathkal railway station.

During detailed interrogation, the accused reportedly confessed to committing the theft at the daivasthana. He was produced before a court in Mangaluru on Tuesday, August 11.

Police said further investigation revealed that the accused has a history of theft cases. As many as 18 theft cases have been registered against him at various police stations in Udupi district. He has already been convicted in one of the cases, and several court-issued arrest warrants are reportedly pending against him in different police stations in Udupi district.