CHENNAI. Twelve idols that were stolen from different temples across the State and recovered by the Idol Wing CID police were handed over to temple authorities here on Wednesday.
Additional Director General of Police (Economic Offences Wing), G. Thilakavathi, restored the idols to temple officials in the presence of HR and CE Special Commissioner and Commissioner, T. Pitchandi. The idols seized from suspects arrested by a special team belonged to the Thalachangadu Naanmadia Perumal Temple in Nagapattinam district, Arasaleeswarar Temple in Villuppuram district, Melapandur Mariamman Temple in Thanjavur district and Senthiathoppu Theepaintha Nachiar Temple in Cuddalore district.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pitchandi said a comprehensive security scheme in association with the Idol Wing CID police for protecting idols in ancient temples was being planned. About 4,000 retired policemen and ex-servicemen were already inducted into the Temple Protection Force.