SHOPIAN, NOVEMBER 11: Shopian Police have arrested seven persons in connection with an apple theft case and recovered 83 stolen apple boxes besides seizing three vehicles allegedly used in the crime.
Police said Police Station Heerpora received information during the evening hours regarding the theft of apple boxes from the orchard/shed of Mohd Yousuf Wagay, son of Ab Karim Wagay, a resident of Amshipora.
Acting swiftly, a police team from Police Station Heerpora launched an operation and, with the assistance of local residents, intercepted three Tata Mobile vehicles a short distance from the spot.
The accused had allegedly stolen the apple boxes and loaded them into the vehicles before attempting to flee. All seven accused were apprehended along with the stolen property.
The arrested accused have been identified as Gulzar Ahmad Mallah, son of Gh Rasool Mallah, resident of Gatipora, Keller; Reyaz Ahmad Lone, son of Mohd Ashraf Lone, resident of Gatipora, Keller; Muzamil Ahmad Wani, son of Ali Mohd Wani, resident of Therina, Keller; Ashiq Hussain Lone, son of Bashir Ahmad Lone, resident of Zrakan, Keller; Umar Hussain Wani, son of Mohd Ashraf Wani, resident of Therina, Keller; and Tehzeel Ahmad Lone, son of Bashir Ahmad Lone, resident of Zrakan, Keller.
The drivers of the Tata Mobile vehicles have been identified as Reyaz Ahmad Lone (JK04G-5507) and Ashiq Hussain Lone (JK13H-8514).
In this regard, FIR No. 126/2026 under Sections 331(4) and 305 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been registered at Police Station Heerpora, and further investigation has been taken up.
Shopian Police reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the property of citizens and taking prompt action against criminal activities.