Unknown attackers allegedly vandalised a church in Karnataka, damaged a statue of baby Jesus and stole money from its donation box on 27 December.
The incident took place at St Mary’s Church in Periyapatna, about 85 kilometres from Mysuru city, The News Minute has reported.
Police told reporters that the perpetrators broke the back door of the church to enter it. On Tuesday, at around 6-7 pm, church staff found the statue damaged and money from the box missing.
Father John Paul of the church then filed a complaint with Periyapatna police, alleging damage to the baby Jesus statue and the theft.
Indian Express has reported that the area saw tension after news of the vandalisation spread.
Mysuru Superintendent of Police Seema Latkar told reporters that theft was the likely motive. Special teams are investigating the case, he said.
Perpetrators were also aware of the absence of church staff and the priest, police said, according to News Minute.
