A major burglary at a Non-Resident Indian (NRI)-owned residence in Begampur village near Phagwara has triggered widespread concern among local residents and renewed debate over the security of unattended homes in rural Punjab.
The incident, reported from the Shahkot subdivision area, is being viewed by villagers as part of a growing pattern of targeted thefts in properties belonging to families living abroad. According to information emerging from the village and statements attributed to local residents, unidentified thieves allegedly broke into a locked house belonging to an NRI family and escaped with valuables and household items reportedly worth several lakh rupees.
The property owner Charanjit Singh is said to be residing overseas, while the house had been under the occasional supervision of relatives and local caretakers. The theft reportedly came to light when a member of the owner’s family arrived at the residence and noticed signs of forced entry.
The main gate lock was allegedly broken and the house appeared to have been thoroughly searched. Villagers and local representatives gathered at the scene soon after being informed. Residents familiar with the matter stated that the intruders appeared to have acted in a planned and systematic manner. Cupboards, storage areas and rooms were reportedly ransacked. Among the items believed to be stolen were electronic appliances, household equipment, decorative materials and other expensive belongings.
The thieves may also have removed security-related devices and electrical fittings from the property. Initial estimates by villagers and family associates indicate that the financial loss could range between seven and eight lakh rupees, although a complete assessment is still pending. Sources close to the affected family stated that no significant quantity of cash or gold was present inside the house at the time of the burglary.
However, many essential and costly household items including washing machine, cooler, juicer mixer, cooking gas cylinders, ceiling fans, pedester fans and inverter were allegedly taken away.
The case has generated anxiety among residents of nearby villages, particularly families with relatives settled abroad who often leave homes locked for long periods. Villagers expressed concern that repeated theft incidents are creating an atmosphere of insecurity in the region.
Local community members have reportedly urged the administration and police authorities to strengthen surveillance and improve preventive measures in rural areas. Residents have emphasised the need for more active night patrolling, improved intelligence gathering, and wider installation of CCTV systems on village roads and entry points.
Police officials, according to local reports, have initiated an investigation into the incident and are examining available evidence. Authorities are also said to be reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas to identify possible suspects and trace the movement of vehicles connected to the burglary. Village representatives have appealed for swift action and the arrest of those responsible.
