A 37-year-old painter was arrested for allegedly stealing diamond earrings worth ₹1 lakh, ₹35,000 in cash, and USD 500 from veteran actor Poonam Dhillon’s home in Khar, Mumbai. The accused, Sameer Ansari, had been hired to paint the actor’s flat during the New Year period.
Theft During Renovation Work
According to police reports, the theft occurred between December 28, 2024, and January 5, 2025. Ansari took advantage of an unlocked cupboard to steal the valuables while painting the flat. The theft came to light when Poonam Dhillon’s son, Anmol, returned from Dubai on January 5 and noticed the missing items. The actor’s manager, Sandesh Chaudhary, subsequently lodged a police complaint.
Recovery and Arrest
The police arrested Ansari on Monday and recovered ₹25,000 in cash, USD 500, and the stolen diamond earrings. It was revealed that the accused had spent ₹9,000 on a party for his painting team after committing the theft.
Legal Action
Ansari has been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). Further investigations are underway to ascertain if there were any accomplices involved.
About the Actor
Poonam Dhillon, best known for her 1979 film Noorie, has had a celebrated career in Bollywood with hits like Red Rose (1980), Dard (1981), Romance (1983), and Sohni Mahiwal (1984). She has also appeared in iconic films such as Karma (1986) and Naam (1986). A prominent figure in Indian cinema, she was a participant in the reality show Bigg Boss in 2009.
Dhillon primarily resides in her Juhu house, though her son occasionally stays at the Khar flat where the theft took place.
Sources By Agencies
