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Crime –  Police in Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district are investigating a case in which a school-aged boy was allegedly manipulated into handing over expensive family jewellery after being befriended by three young men who ran a food stall. The incident, which came to light over the weekend, has raised concerns about the vulnerability of minors to exploitation through seemingly harmless interactions.

Jewellery Found Missing From Family Home

According to police officials, the matter surfaced when the boy’s sister asked for her jewellery, prompting the family to open their home cupboard to retrieve it. To their shock, they discovered that all the ornaments had vanished. The missing items were later estimated to be worth around Rs 85 lakh, a substantial sum for the family.

When questioned by relatives, the boy, a Class 7 student, reportedly told them that he had given the jewellery to three local youths in return for plates of momo. The statement left the family stunned and led them to approach the police.

Complaint Filed by Boy’s Father

An FIR was registered at Rampur Karkhana police station after a formal complaint was submitted by the boy’s father, Vimlesh Mishra. Mishra, who works as a temple priest in Varanasi, stated that his son lives in the village for educational purposes and had come into contact with the accused during this time.

In his complaint, Mishra alleged that the three youths operated a momo stall at Dumri Chauraha, located along the Deoria–Kasya road. Over time, they allegedly gained the boy’s confidence by offering him food and engaging with him regularly.

Alleged Manipulation Through Friendship

Police said the father claimed the youths gradually befriended his son and took advantage of his trust. The boy reportedly accessed the family’s jewellery kept at home and handed it over to the accused on different occasions. The ornaments allegedly belonged to both the boy and his sister.

Officials noted that there was no immediate suspicion within the household, as the family was unaware that the jewellery had been removed until the sister specifically asked for it.

Accused Allegedly Fled After Incident

By the time the family realized what had happened and informed the authorities, the three youths were no longer at their stall. Police believe they fled the area soon after receiving the jewellery.

Rampur Karkhana Station House Officer Devendra Kumar Singh confirmed that a case has been registered based on the complaint and that efforts are underway to locate the accused. He said police teams are conducting searches and gathering local information to trace their whereabouts.

Investigation Ongoing, Police Urge Caution

The SHO added that a detailed investigation is in progress to establish the sequence of events and determine how the jewellery was disposed of. Police are also examining whether similar incidents have occurred in the area.

Authorities have urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant about their children’s interactions, particularly with strangers, and to ensure that valuables are kept secure. Officials stressed that the case highlights the need for awareness about how easily trust can be misused.

No arrests had been made at the time of reporting, and police said further action would follow once the accused are traced and questioned.