Hyderabad domestic help crimes rise across affluent areas
HYDERABAD: A series of thefts, robberies and murders involving domestic workers in Hyderabad and its outskirts has raised concerns among police officials and residents alike. Recent cases include the theft of gold and diamond jewellery worth ₹1.3 crore from a businessman’s residence in Jubilee Hills, the disappearance of ₹25 lakh from the house of a retired Army officer in Karkhana, and a large cash theft by a couple hired for childcare in the Ramgopalpet area.
In another case, accused persons allegedly murdered the wife of a retired Director General-level officer at Prashasan Nagar before looting the house. Police officials said these incidents were only a few examples of a growing pattern seen in the city over the past four months.
Police flag growing threat from domestic worker gangs
Officials expressed concern that many homeowners continue to ignore basic background verification despite repeated crimes occurring in front of their eyes. They said domestic workers hired for lower wages were, in several cases, turning against employers after gaining their trust.
Incidents involving domestic workers joining households and later committing crimes have been increasing every year in Hyderabad and surrounding areas. Police records show that more than 50 such cases were registered in the first four months of this year alone. Victims include public representatives, senior officials, businessmen and affluent families.
Following the Prashasan Nagar murder case, police officials reportedly received more than 200 calls from residents seeking verification of Nepali workers employed in their homes.
Nepal-linked networks exploit trust to target wealthy homes
Police suspect that some accused persons who earlier committed crimes in Indian cities and later fled to Nepal are now operating organised networks. These groups allegedly send associates to cities such as Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune and Bengaluru as domestic workers.
Investigators said some women first gain the confidence of families before helping other associates secure jobs in the same household. Once the network establishes control inside the house, members allegedly flee with cash and valuables.
Police officials said brokers stationed near the Uttar Pradesh-Bihar border were helping accused persons cross into Nepal after crimes were committed.
