Mathura, Uttar Pradesh – In a dramatic turn of events, Mathura police intercepted a gang accused of stealing silver worth approximately ₹1 crore. The encounter unfolded near the Agra border late on Thursday night, resulting in the death of one suspect and the recovery of the stolen silver.
The Incident Unfolds
The daring robbery occurred a few days earlier near Hindustan College in Farah area, where armed men targeted jewellery traders returning from Agra. The thieves, arriving in an SUV and motorcycles, reportedly stopped the vehicle, pushed aside the driver, abducted the two brothers from Mathura, and made off with around 75 kg of silver valued at nearly ₹85–100 lakh.
The Uttar Pradesh Police formed eight special teams and launched a 48-hour search. Leading officers used mobile data, CCTV analysis, and information from local informers to track the robbers headed toward the Agra–Mathura border.
The Encounter & Arrest
Acting on a tip-off, law enforcement blocked a suspicious, unregistered Bolero near Farah police station. When officers signalled them to stop, the vehicle’s occupants opened fire. Police returned fire, injuring both suspects. They were taken to SN Medical College in Agra—Neeraj succumbed to his injuries, while Rahul remains hospitalized under police custody.
Authorities also recovered the abandoned SUV, firearms, ammunition, and the entire stolen silver consignment from the scene.
Official Statements
SP City Rajeev Kumar Singh confirmed that the killed suspect has been identified as Neeraj of Agra, and his accomplice Rahul is undergoing treatment. Singh affirmed that the recovered items, including silver worth about ₹1 crore, have been safely retrieved and will be returned to the victims.
Investigators say further arrests may follow as they pursue leads against other gang members. The police are committed to dismantling the full theft ring involved in this organized crime operation.
Social Impact and Response
Local residents and traders have expressed relief that the accused has been neutralized and the stolen silver recovered. Business owners called the swift police action a vital deterrent against escalating highway crimes in the region.
Despite the recovery, the incident has raised concerns about security on key highways, especially for traders carrying high-value goods. Authorities say they are stepping up vehicle checks, deploying drone surveillance, and enhancing coordination across districts.
Looking Ahead
A post-mortem is underway for the deceased suspect, and the injured is under medical watch. An FIR under robbery sections has been filed at Farah police station. Further investigations will focus on identifying and apprehending other suspected members of the gang. Police also await fingerprint and forensic matches to finalize more identities and arrests.
