Elderly woman alleges theft of gold, diamonds from baggage during trip from Bengaluru to US

A 62-year-old woman, originally from Dharwad, has lodged a police complaint here alleging that gold and diamond jewellery worth several lakhs of rupees was stolen from her checked-in baggage during her flight to the USA via Abu Dhabi.

The complainant, Shanta Ramesh Kashinkunti, who is currently settled in the United States, stated that she frequently visits her native Hubballi–Dharwad. According to her complaint, she had booked a return ticket to the US and travelled on Akasa Airlines on November 15, 2025, departing from Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), Bengaluru, at 9.20 p.m, with a transit halt at Abu Dhabi.

She alleged that her checked-in baggage contained approximately 790 grams of gold jewellery, diamond ornaments worth about ₹8 lakh, medicines valued at ₹20,000, and USD 200 in cash. After completing check-in, baggage tagging, and security screening at Bengaluru airport, she proceeded with her journey.

However, upon inspecting her baggage at Abu Dhabi International Airport, she allegedly discovered that the valuables were missing. Though the suitcase showed no visible signs of tampering or damage, the contents had allegedly been stolen.

The woman immediately reported the matter to Abu Dhabi airport authorities and also lodged a complaint with Akasa Airlines’ customer service. Despite repeated follow-ups, she alleged that no concrete information or resolution was provided.

After returning to India on January 7, 2026, she approached the police on the advice of her relatives and filed a formal complaint seeking investigation into the incident.

She has urged authorities to examine CCTV footage at Kempegowda International Airport, question airport security staff and other concerned personnel, and coordinate with Abu Dhabi airport authorities to trace the missing valuables and take action.

Based on her complaint filed on Saturday (January 31, 2026), the airport police have registered a case of theft against unknown person for further investigation.