Meghalaya Hanuman mandir attacked: Miscreants vandalise Shillong temple, loot idols & jewellery

A Hanuman temple in Shillong’s Garikhana locality was allegedly vandalised by unidentified miscreants in the early hours of Sunday, with idols, silver ornaments and cash stolen after CCTV cameras were reportedly damaged, police said.

The shocking temple theft in Shillong has raised concerns among residents over security arrangements and night patrolling in the busy locality.

Temple break-in reported around 1 am

According to a PTI report, police officials said the incident took place at around 1 am under the jurisdiction of Lumdiengjri police station. The accused allegedly entered the Hanuman Mandir after breaking open a side entrance before ransacking the premises.


An FIR lodged by Ravi Sharma stated that the intruders targeted several valuables kept inside the temple complex during the break-in.

Idols, silver ornaments and cash stolen

Police said the thieves allegedly stole idols of Lord Krishna and Radha along with a smaller idol of Lord Hanuman. Silver ornaments and brass ritual items used during prayers and ceremonies were also reported missing.

The stolen brass articles included traditional water pots, lamps and plates commonly used in temple rituals.

Officials further confirmed that an undisclosed amount of cash was taken away from the donation box inside the temple. However, the main idol inside the shrine was left untouched.

CCTV cameras allegedly set on fire

Investigators suspect the accused attempted to destroy evidence before escaping from the scene. According to police, the intruders allegedly set fire to CCTV cameras installed both inside and outside the temple premises.

Despite this, surveillance cameras fitted in neighbouring houses reportedly captured visuals of the suspects fleeing the area. The footage has been handed over to police along with the complaint and is expected to play a crucial role in the investigation.

Residents raise security concerns

The Hanuman temple vandalism incident has triggered concern among residents of Garikhana and nearby Jhalupara, with many questioning the effectiveness of security measures and late-night police patrolling in the locality.

Locals have reportedly expressed fears over the safety of religious places and rising incidents of theft during night-time hours.

Police launch investigation

Shillong police have launched a detailed investigation into the temple theft and vandalism case. Officials are currently examining CCTV footage from nearby buildings and collecting evidence from the scene to identify the accused.

No arrests had been made at the time of writing, police added.

Inputs from PTI