KOCHI: A huge theft on broad daylight has shocked Kochi. Valuables including 20 sovereigns of jewellery, Rs 32 lakh, a golden Rolex watch and a specific amount of US dollars were stolen.

The theft took place at the house of American Malayalee industrialist M C John of Padamadan house in Ernakulam Palliyil lane. The bungalow-like two-storey house is located next to a 24-hour private hospital.

The Ernakulam central police has begun investigation on the complaint lodged by John’s brother M C Roy. The nearby CCTV cameras were checked but no visuals of the thieves were found. According to police, the theft took place on Vishu morning. John, his wife and sister-in-law were then at Kovalam. When they returned home on Easter, the door was left open. Following which, it was found out that things including jewellery and money were stolen.

The thieves entered the house through the back door. It is suspected that they broke the lock of the bedroom cupboard, stole jewellery and money and escaped through the front door. John and his wife had returned from the US a month ago. A night security was appointed after the couple began staying at the house.

Iron rod found

The police have found an iron rod that was used for the theft. Forensic experts have collected finger print samples from the house. Currently, the investigation is focused on usual thieves. The police have also collected information about thieves, who were recently released from jails. Efforts are on progress to check CCTV footages from nearby houses and catch the culprits. The investigation is being led by Ernakulam central police circle inspector.