Olympic gold medal of ex‑hockey star M.M. Somaya stolen from Bengaluru home

What Happened

The 1980 Moscow Olympic gold medal belonging to former Indian hockey captain M.M. Somaya was taken from his house in New Thippasandra, Bengaluru. Two unidentified men forced open the front door at about 2:34 a.m. on October 28 while the family was away in Kodagu. Neighbours found the door ajar around 7:15 a.m. and alerted Somaya. CCTV from a nearby house captured the two intruders entering the premises. The thieves also stole a silver medal from the 1982 Asian Games, bronze medals from the 1986 Asian Games and the 1982 Champions Trophy, several silver cups, gold bangles, silver spoons, gold coins and cash of ₹30,000. Police estimate the total loss at ₹3.53 lakh.

Reaction

Somaya, a three‑time Olympian and 1985 Arjuna Award winner, said the stolen gold medal is India’s last Olympic gold in men’s hockey and holds national importance. He wrote to Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar asking for a fast‑track probe and for police resources to be focused on recovering the medal. Deputy Commissioner Vikram Amte said two special teams have been formed and the case is registered under Sections 331(4) and 305 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

Context

The theft highlights vulnerabilities in home security even for high‑profile athletes. It also underscores the symbolic value India places on its lone men’s hockey Olympic gold, prompting political attention to the investigation.