Mumbai: A high-value jewellery theft complaint involving filmmaker and stylist Rhea Kapoor’s team has triggered an investigation by Mumbai Police after diamond-studded earrings worth ₹1.35 crore were reported missing during an overseas trip to New York.
The jewellery, which had been rented from two reputed Mumbai-based jewellers for a major international fashion event, was allegedly discovered missing only after the team arrived in the United States.
Jewellery Rented for Prestigious Fashion Event
According to information provided in the police complaint, Rhea Kapoor travelled to New York with her professional team to attend a globally recognized fashion event. As part of the styling arrangements, two luxury pairs of earrings were sourced from separate jewellery houses in Mumbai.
The responsibility of carrying the jewellery was entrusted to makeup artist Savleen Singh, a long-time member of Kapoor’s team. The earrings were packed in separate jewellery boxes and stored inside her handbag during the journey.
Missing Jewellery Discovered in New York
The team reportedly departed Mumbai on April 27, travelling via Dubai before reaching New York the following day. After checking into their hotel, the jewellery boxes were opened in preparation for the event.
It was at that point that the team allegedly discovered both boxes were empty.
The missing items reportedly include:
- A pair of emerald and diamond-studded gold earrings valued at approximately ₹66 lakh
- A pair of Zambian emerald gold-bordered earrings valued at approximately ₹69 lakh
The combined value of the missing jewellery is estimated at ₹1.35 crore.
Police Register Theft Case
Following the team’s return to India, a formal complaint was filed with Mumbai’s Sahar Police Station.
Based on the complaint, authorities registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to theft by an unknown individual.
Investigators have begun examining multiple possibilities and are reviewing the movement of the jewellery throughout the trip.
Investigation Focuses on Entire Travel Route
Officials are working to determine the exact point at which the jewellery disappeared.
The investigation is expected to cover:
- Airport handling procedures in Mumbai
- Security and baggage movement during transit
- Flight-related activities during the international journey
- Events occurring after arrival in New York
- Hotel access and room security records
Authorities are also expected to review available surveillance footage and gather statements from individuals who had access to the jewellery before it was reported missing.
High-Value Jewellery Security Under Spotlight
The incident has once again highlighted the challenges involved in transporting luxury jewellery across international destinations for fashion events, film promotions, and celebrity appearances.
Industry insiders note that high-value rented jewellery is typically accompanied by strict documentation and handling protocols. Any loss or theft can result in extensive investigations involving insurers, jewellers, event organizers, and law enforcement agencies.
No Official Statement Yet
As of publication, neither Rhea Kapoor nor members of her team have issued a detailed public statement regarding the ongoing investigation.
Mumbai Police have confirmed that inquiries are underway and that efforts are focused on establishing when and where the jewellery went missing.
The case remains under investigation.
