Precious idol worth Rs 4 cr seized, 4 held in UP

Lucknow, Aug 10 (UNI) The Special Operation Group (SOG) of Uttar Pradesh police today recovered an ''ashtadhatu'' idol, estimated at Rs four crore in the international market, and nabbed four smugglers in Pannuganj area of Sonebhadra district in this connection.

Reports from state police headquarters said the sleuths seized the ancient idol of Lord Gautam Buddha from the smugglers' possession late last night near Pilkhuli crossing.

The seized idol weighed around four kg.

The arrested, comprising two from Bihar, have been sent to jail.

A pistol and some cartridges were also seized from their possession.

UNI JAS KN GL BD1940