Kowdiar palace theft: Police probe international antique smuggling links

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The investigation into the major jewellery heist at the historic Kowdiar Palace has taken a significant turn, with the city police now focusing on international antique smuggling syndicates. Under the leadership of City Police Commissioner K. Karthik, a high-level search and site inspection were conducted at the palace to trace the disappearance of ornaments valued at two crore.

On Monday, the DCP reached the palace and recorded the statement of Aswathi Thirunal Gauri Lakshmi Bai, who had filed the complaint. Following this, the Commissioner and senior officers from the Peroorkada and Cantonment stations conducted a thorough inspection of the room and the cupboard where the theft took place. The team specifically checked which rooms allowed access to the crime scene and collected details of everyone permitted to enter those areas. As per police instructions, the remaining jewellery in the cupboard has been moved to a safe location.

The police have concluded that the theft was likely an inside job, carried out by those who knew exactly where the cupboard keys were kept. Investigators believe the cupboard was opened several times using the key to smuggle the jewels out. Commissioner K. Karthik stated that a detailed investigation is underway and all suspicious matters will be properly checked, though further specific details cannot be revealed at this stage.

A major challenge for the police is that the theft occurred between October and November, giving the thieves ample time to move and resell the stolen items. While the value is estimated at two crore, its real value in the international market is likely many times higher. Consequently, the police have launched a search for gangs that trade antique jewellery both inside and outside the country.

Meanwhile, the recording of statements continues at the Peroorkada station. Police have prepared a list of everyone who visited the palace during the period, including foreigners and YouTubers who came to film the premises. The statements of palace employees are currently being taken, and the statements of those living within the palace will be recorded soon.