Bhatkal: An attempted burglary at Nabila Mansion in Bhatkal’s Shifa Cross area during the night of Wednesday or Thursday was foiled after intruders failed to find any valuables or cash in the house. Although the property was thoroughly ransacked and several cupboards and doors were damaged, the thieves reportedly left empty-handed.

The house belongs to the family of the late Mohammad Ghouse Sada. His in-law, Imtiyaz Damda, Imtiyaz Damda — who resides in Mangaluru — told SahilOnline that his brother-in-law had left for Hajj on May 24 and his mother is currently in Dubai. Following their departure, the house had been locked. Imtiyaz arrived in Bhatkal with his family on Friday and discovered signs of forced entry.

Inside, the scene was chaotic. All six bedrooms had been searched, with the contents of cupboards strewn across beds and floors. One locked cupboard appeared to have been pried open, likely using an iron rod. Fortunately, the family had already moved valuables, including jewellery and cash, to a secure location before locking the house.

According to Imtiyaz, the intruders searched not only the ground and first floors but also the terrace, where items were found scattered. A heavy copper pot (traditionally used for heating bathing water) was found near the entrance, suggesting the burglars may have attempted to take it but were either unable or planned to return later.

While the exact list of missing items is still unclear, the family believes only minor household items, if any, were stolen.

Bhatkal Rural Police visited the site and conducted a preliminary investigation. Authorities are reviewing nearby CCTV footage and pursuing leads to identify the suspects.