Double Life of Amit Dutta: From Neighborly Facade to Notorious Burglar

In a striking revelation, Amit Dutta, a 46-year-old man, was apprehended by the Howrah police on June 5, 2025, for attempted burglary after leading a double life for 13 years. Dutta, who lived in Nodakhali, West Bengal, presented himself as a friendly neighbor by day while secretly engaging in a series of thefts at night. His arrest marks a significant breakthrough for local authorities who have been investigating a wave of burglaries in the region.

The incident, which unfolded in Rajapur, saw Dutta caught red-handed while attempting to break into another businessman’s home. Following his arrest, police discovered his lavish residence, equipped with modern amenities including a gym, chandeliers, and a bathtub, which starkly contrasted with his facade as a ragpicker. According to Officer Ravi Kumar, a spokesperson for the Howrah Rural Police, "Dutta's sophisticated methods and dual identity allowed him to evade law enforcement for over a decade."

Dutta’s modus operandi involved disguising himself as a ragpicker, allowing him to scout potential targets unnoticed. He would cross the Bhagirathi River each morning from Budge Budge, donning tattered clothing to blend in with the local populace. His expertise in lock-picking and preference for affluent neighborhoods enabled him to steal substantial amounts of cash and jewelry. Authorities suspect he is linked to several unsolved theft cases across multiple jurisdictions, prompting a wider investigation into his criminal activities.

The Howrah police have indicated that Dutta used the proceeds from his thefts to maintain a lavish lifestyle, including a recent trip to Indonesia and the purchase of a luxury sedan just days before his arrest. This revelation raises questions about the effectiveness of local law enforcement in detecting long-term criminal activity. As noted by Dr. Sanjay Roy, a criminologist at the University of Kolkata, "Dutta's case illustrates how individuals can exploit community trust to facilitate criminal behavior, highlighting the need for improved surveillance and community engagement by law enforcement."

Residents of Batanagar, where Dutta previously lived in a modest tin-roofed house, expressed shock at his hidden lifestyle. Neighbor Samar Pramanik remarked, "He was always so generous, contributing to local events. It’s hard to believe he was living a lie all these years." This sentiment underscores the complex nature of community dynamics, where criminality can lurk beneath a veneer of respectability.

As investigations continue, police are delving into old case files to determine the full extent of Dutta's criminal activities. The Howrah police have committed to increasing their vigilance in the region to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In conclusion, the arrest of Amit Dutta serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked criminality masked by social goodwill. With the recent developments in the case, local authorities are now faced with the challenge of restoring community trust amid revelations of betrayal from one of their own. As the investigation unfolds, it may lead to significant changes in policing strategies and community safety initiatives in West Bengal.

Given the complexities of Dutta's case, it is essential for law enforcement to engage with community members to build trust and deter future criminal activity. The implications of Dutta’s actions extend beyond the immediate thefts, calling into question societal perceptions of safety in neighborhoods and the effectiveness of current policing methods.