Three arrested for smuggling stolen Amman idolstolen Amman idol near Kancheepuram
Three men were arrested near Kancheepuram in Tamil Nadu on June 26, 2026, for attempting to smuggle a stolen metal Amman idol. The Idol Wing-CID foiled the alleged smuggling bid and seized the stolen artifact.
This matters because it highlights ongoing efforts by Indian police to protect religious heritage from theft and illegal trafficking.
- Kancheepuram has been a major temple center since the 7th century under the Pallava dynasty.
- The Amman goddess is worshipped in various forms across South India, including as Mariamman in Tamil regions.
- India's Idol Wing was established in 1990 after a surge in temple artifact thefts across Tamil Nadu.
