Layoffs due to AI push Indore couple into crime:Police say, job loss and financial stress triggered Rs 15 lakh jewellery theft, inspired by Bunty Babli

Indore police have arrested a young couple in connection with the theft of jewellery worth around Rs 15 lakh from a jewellery shop in the city. Police said the accused, who are educated youths, allegedly turned to crime after losing their jobs due to layoffs triggered by the growing use of artificial intelligence, pushing them into financial distress. Accused inspired by film, not professional criminals The theft took place in Silicon City, a posh residential colony in the Rau area. Police said the crime was inspired by the Bollywood film Bunty Aur Babli, but clarified that the accused were not habitual offenders. The accused have been identified as 18-year-old Priyanshu and Anjana, both natives of Mandla district. According to police, the two have known each other since Class 6 and were living together in Indore at the time of the incident. Job loss due to AI layoffs triggered crime Addressing a press conference, Krishna Lalchandani, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone One), said Priyanshu was working as a graphic designer with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in Indore. He lost his job during recent layoffs attributed to the increased adoption of artificial intelligence. Anjana is currently preparing for the NEET examination while staying in Indore. The DCP said financial pressure and personal needs led the duo to plan the theft. Week-long recce of jewellery shop Police said the accused carried out a recce of Shri Jewellers in Silicon City for nearly a week before committing the theft. To understand the shop’s layout and routine, they even purchased jewellery from the same shop a few days earlier. For surveillance, the duo used a scooter belonging to another couple they were staying with. This scooter later became a crucial lead for investigators. Attempt to sell jewellery fails in Sarafa Market After stealing jewellery worth about Rs 15 lakh, the accused attempted to sell the ornaments in Indore’s Sarafa market. However, traders refused to buy the items, suspecting them to be stolen. Following the failed attempt, the couple left for Mandla to celebrate Christmas. Arrest at Bhopal Railway Station Using mobile location tracking, police traced the accused and arrested them at Bhopal Railway Station. Officials said 100 per cent of the stolen jewellery has been recovered from their possession.