Abohar’s Electronic Market on Jain Nagari Road witnessed a major theft spree, with nearly 10 shops reportedly targeted by thieves in a single night. The burglars allegedly cut and stole the copper pipes attached to air-conditioning units, leaving shopkeepers to discover the damage only after opening their establishments the next morning.
The unusual nature of the theft came to light when shopkeepers switched on their air conditioners to escape the humid morning heat. Instead of cool air, the ACs continued blowing hot air. When the owners went to the rooftops to inspect the units, they were shocked to find that the copper pipes had been cut and taken away. Each affected shop reportedly suffered losses of around ₹8,000 to ₹10,000.
What initially appeared to be an isolated incident soon turned into a larger theft case as more shopkeepers began checking their premises. Electronic stores as well as other businesses were found to have been targeted, with the number of affected shops reportedly reaching around 10.
The thieves allegedly did not stop at AC copper pipes. The battery of a generator placed on the roof of a three-storey shop was also found missing. Electronic equipment connected with Wi-Fi was reportedly stolen as well, adding to the losses suffered by the shopkeepers.
One of the most unusual details to emerge from the incident was the alleged method used by the thieves to get in and out of the market. According to the shopkeepers, the burglars apparently entered from the sports stadium located behind the market. While climbing down, they allegedly tied a Wi-Fi cable to a gate latch and used it as support to reach the shops.
The incident has left traders worried about the security of the market. Shopkeepers said repeated thefts have created an atmosphere of fear and expressed their frustration with the administration. They have urged authorities to strengthen night-time security and take steps to prevent similar incidents.
The police have been informed about the thefts and an investigation is expected to determine the exact sequence of events, identify those responsible and assess the total loss suffered by the affected businesses. For traders in the market, the incident has once again raised questions over security arrangements during the night.