Bengaluru, July 24: Bengaluru police have uncovered a surprising twist in their investigation of a habitual bike thief, Ashok alias Apple. The 28-year-old fruit vendor-turned-criminal used the proceeds from his thefts to fund the cancer treatment of his friend's wife. The couple had given Ashok shelter after his wife left him due to his criminal activities.

TOI reported that Ashok, known for targeting high-end bikes like KTM and Pulsar models, recently stole a bike from a software engineer in Giri Nagar with his accomplice Satish. During the investigation, police discovered Ashok's extensive criminal record, which includes 15 prior cases. He had been released from jail only a month earlier, but quickly returned to his illicit activities. ‘Someone Sick in My House’: Thief Takes Cash, Gold From House in Tamil Nadu, Leaves Apology Note Promising To Return Loot in a Month.

Upon further questioning, Ashok revealed that he had used all the money from his thefts to pay for the breast cancer treatment of his friend’s wife. This act of gratitude stemmed from the couple’s kindness in providing him shelter during a difficult period in his life. The revelation has shocked the Bengaluru police, who were not expecting such a motive behind Ashok's crimes. Ghaziabad: Thief Smashes Fortuner Car’s Window To Steal Laptop, Abandons Scooty and Helmet When Gets Caught (Watch Video).

Satish, Ashok’s partner in crime, also has a notorious criminal background with over 40 cases against him, including charges of murder and robbery. The duo specialised in stealing and selling high-end bikes across the city. The police have recovered ten stolen bikes from them so far.

The police are now delving deeper into the duo’s operations and looking to return the stolen bikes to their rightful owners.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 24, 2024 05:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).