In an unexpected turn of events, an Indian woman, identified as Kamini Kannan, accidentally threw gold worth Dh50,000 (Rs 12.32 lakh) during her Dubai visit, which was later returned to her after a few days, with efficient efforts made by the police.
Kannan lived in the UAE for about 23 years before moving back to India in 2021. During her recent visit to Dubai for a wedding, Kannan decided to review her long-term gold investments amid fluctuations in gold prices in late January.
ALSO READ: India Fast-Tracks Mega Dam Project On Chenab Amid Suspended Indus Waters Treaty With Pakistan
Kannan temporarily shifted the gold into another pouch after noticing the pouch she normally used to keep her valuables had worn out. The pouch, which she placed on the dining table, contained four 22-carat gold coins weighing 8 grams each and one 50-gram gold bar of 24-carat purity. However, later in the day, the pouch was accidentally thrown away during routine cleaning.
The family realised the mistake only the following morning, on February 1, just a day before Kannan was scheduled to fly back. Despite a frantic search, their hopes dimmed when it emerged that her son had unknowingly disposed of the pouch. “Those items are worth around Dh50,000 today,” Kannan told Khaleej Times.
As per Khaleej Times, Kannan's son received an unexpected call from the police. “He said that someone was asking about the things we lost. Turns out, it was the police,” reported Khaleej Times.
Abhimanyu then approached the police at the building’s reception and was informed that a garbage collector had discovered the gold and taken it to the Gold Souk. When questioned, the collector told the police that he had found the valuables in the garbage, Abhimanyu said.
Speaking about the incident, Abhimanyu expressed surprise at how systematic the recovery process was in Dubai. Quoted in the report, he said the authorities appeared to have an organised mechanism to track waste, including identifying which garbage bags came from specific locations.
Following the advice, Abhimanyu visited the Naif Police Station carrying photographs of the gold, purchase bills, and documents establishing ownership. He said the police only asked him to provide visual proof and documents confirming that the gold belonged to his mother.
Although the entire process took a few hours, Abhimanyu described it as smooth and hassle-free, adding that the police personnel were extremely cooperative and kind.
Dubai has a strong reputation for helping residents and visitors recover lost belongings. Incidents involving the return of wallets, valuables, and lost luggage by taxi drivers, airport staff, and authorities are frequently reported, highlighting the city’s efficient systems and civic responsibility.