Manipur: Woman arrested in Imphal for stealing gold from jewellery shop
Summary of the News Article
A 28-year-old woman from Paobitek Mayai Leikai in Imphal West, identified as Shakina alias Apikcha, was arrested on July 16, 2025 for allegedly stealing a gold ring worth ₹40,000 from a jewellery shop at Wahengbam Leikai Supermarket. CCTV footage caught her concealing the ring in her bag while pretending to make a purchase. During questioning, Shakina confessed and the ring was recovered. Notably, she had a previous arrest in 2022 under the NDPS Act. She was produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate on July 17 and remanded in judicial custody until July 31
1. Introduction: A Shocking Heist in Broad Daylight
Ever walked into a jewellery shop, expecting to pick a ring or necklace, only to be part of a real-life suspense play? Well, that’s pretty much what went down at Wahengbam Leikai Supermarket in Imphal. On a seemingly ordinary afternoon, Shakina alias Apikcha, a 28-year-old woman, casually browsed the collection, asked for a price, pretended to use GPay, then strolled out—without paying.
But thanks to CCTV, the scene was captured from every angle, and justice caught up quickly. Within hours, she was arrested, the ring recovered, and a judicial remand followed—all before the weekend began.
In this deep dive, we’ll explore the who, what, why, and so what—dissecting the incident, profiling the accused, and unpacking broader implications for crime, security, and societal trust.
2. The Crime Unveiled: Smooth But Slimy
2.1 What Happened? The Heist Strategy
Shakina walked into Prince Jewellers around 3 pm on July 16, 2025, asking to see gold items. She selected a ring, asked its price (~₹21,000), then stealthily slipped a second ring (worth ₹40,000) into her bag while the shopkeeper calculated. She scanned a QR code—pretending to pay via GPay—then left, blending into the crowd
2.2 The Digital Trail
Luckily, CCTV cameras in and around the shop captured the act. That footage became the smoking gun, showing exactly how she hid the ring and exited. No escape, just a digital timeline of events that would seal her fate.
2.3 The Arrest
By morning, a joint team from Imphal and Wangoi police had raided Shakina’s home in Paobitek Mayai Leikai. The accused confessed during interrogation, and the stolen ring was found in her possession
3. Who Is Shakina Apikcha? A Troubled Record
Let’s talk about the accused.
- Age: 28
- Residence: Paobitek Mayai Leikai, Imphal West
- Family: Wife of Md Nejamuddin
- Criminal history: A prior arrest under the NDPS Act in 2022 indicates some entanglement with narcotics cases
That background hints that this was not a one-off lapse in judgment—more like a pattern of impulsive or opportunistic crime.
4. Investigative Response: Rapid and Coordinated
4.1 The Complaint
The shopkeeper filed an FIR at Imphal Police Station within hours. The clarity of the footage and details made the case airtight from day one
4.2 Collaborative Policing
Imphal and Wangoi police acted in lockstep—checking CCTV, tracing the suspect, and conducting a swift raid on her home. Arrest came within 24 hours. That kind of coordination shows readiness and effectiveness.
4.3 Judicial Processing
On July 17, Shakina was produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) and granted judicial remand until July 31, giving the police time to investigate further
5. Legal Jewels and Pitfalls: What the Law Says
5.1 Charges Filed
Likely sections:
- Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 380 for theft in a dwelling or shop.
- IPC Section 378 for general theft.
- Considering her NDPS record, deeper investigations could emerge.
5.2 Judicial Custody
Remand till July 31 gives authorities leeway to build a stronger case—trace alternative accomplices, check bank or phone records, and prepare evidence.
5.3 Habitual Offender Clause
Her prior record could land her harsher treatment under the “habitual offender” rules. Courts may impose stricter bail terms or longer sentences.
6. Security Gaps: When Shops Aren’t Safe Zones
6.1 Crowds & Distraction Tactics
Jewellery shops can be bustling. Smart thieves use timing and distraction—posing as interested buyers while slipping items away.
FAQs: Addressing Your Curiosity
1. Why was she remanded until July 31?
To allow law enforcement time for comprehensive investigations—beyond recovering the ring, they may look into accomplices, her past dealings, and electronics evidence.
2. What does prior NDPS arrest mean for her case?
It could lead to harsher punishment and reduced chances for bail. Courts tend to be stricter with habitual offenders.
3. Can the shopkeeper claim compensation?
Yes. They can file for a civil claim separate from criminal charges. Legal advice would help in damage recovery efforts.
4. Will stricter shop security prevent this?
While no system is foolproof, CCTV, alarms, staff training, and controlled entry significantly reduce risk.
5. Should customers feel uneasy in jewellery shops now?
Not really. These incidents are exceptions. But awareness helps—notice where cameras are, be cautious of your surroundings, and trust staff guidance.
