MM Somaya's Stolen Olympic Gold Medal Recovered by Bengaluru Police

Bengaluru Police Successfully Recovers Stolen Olympic Medal

Former Indian hockey captain and Olympic gold medalist MM Somaya expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Bengaluru Police for recovering his stolen gold medal, stating that their diligent efforts made him feel as though he had won the Olympic medal all over again.

Recently, Somaya's treasured gold medal from the 1980 Moscow Olympics, along with other valuables, was reported stolen from his home in Bengaluru. The police swiftly took action, leading to the recovery of these significant pieces of Indian sports history.

In a statement to reporters, Somaya remarked, "I am incredibly thankful to the Bangalore Police, particularly Mr. Seemant Kumar Singh, for their relentless work over the past few days. They not only recovered my medal but also other valuables taken from my home. I want to especially acknowledge DCP East, Dr. Vikram, and the ACP of Halsur, Mr. Balakrishna, along with Inspector Anand from Indiranagar, who reassured us from the outset that the medals would be found. These medals represent honor not just for me but for our state and country. Their commitment has been remarkable, and I feel as if I have won the Olympic medal again. I am truly pleased with how the police handled this case and resolved it so quickly."

Somaya, a three-time Olympian, captained the Indian team during the 1988 Seoul Olympics and also secured an Asian Games silver in 1982 and a bronze in 1986.

Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh shared with reporters that it was a privilege for the police to return the medals to the hockey legend, discussing the challenges faced during the investigation. The police managed to apprehend two suspects involved in the theft.

"This case, reported at the Indira Nagar police station by Mr. Somaya, involved the theft of his gold and silver medals, which he earned with great pride for our country. We are pleased to announce that my team successfully solved the case, arrested two suspects, and recovered all stolen items, including the medals, which we are honored to return to Mr. Somaya after completing the necessary legal procedures," he stated.

Commissioner Singh noted that the successful resolution of this case serves as a source of motivation for the police force, especially given the lack of initial clues, making it one of their most challenging cases.

"This outcome is encouraging for us and serves as motivation for our officers who work tirelessly. This was a particularly difficult case due to the absence of leads. Ultimately, we were able to solve it and recover the stolen items. The two suspects arrested have a history of similar crimes, and we will ensure they do not repeat such actions in the future," he added.

Somaya recounted that the theft occurred on October 28 while he was on a brief holiday with his family in Coorg, his hometown. He quickly returned home after being alerted by neighbors and promptly filed a police report.

"The incident took place on the morning of the 28th, and from the very beginning, the police were reassuring in their approach. They made every effort to resolve the case swiftly. I am very grateful to the Bangalore Police, especially Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh and his team, for recovering not only my medals but also other valuables that were missing from my home," he said.

Somaya emphasized the sentimental value of his medals, recalling that during his time, hockey was an amateur sport without monetary rewards for victories. Thus, these medals hold significant memories and honor for him, particularly the Olympic gold.

"These medals represent years of hard work, and back then, there were no financial incentives; it was purely an amateur sport. They symbolize honor not just for me but for our state and country. I cherish the memories associated with them, especially the Olympic gold medal, and I am overjoyed to have them back with me now," he concluded.