A violent robbery attempt at a jewellery shop in Modinagar turned deadly Thursday morning when a 75-year-old jeweller was stabbed to death. The assailant, disguised with a cap, entered the store just after opening time, threw chilli powder at the owner’s face, and then launched a brutal attack, stabbing him multiple times.

The victim, proprietor of “Girdhari Lal & Sons Jewellery,” died almost instantly. The attacker — later identified by police — had reportedly lost a large sum of money in online gaming and trading, which investigators believe may have driven him to target the shop.

According to police, the accused planned the robbery carefully. He had studied the shop owner’s routine, knowing when the store would open and that it would likely be empty of customers at that time. CCTV footage from inside the shop captured the entire crime, and locals chased and captured the attacker within 30 metres of the scene following the stabbing.

During interrogation, the suspect admitted to entering with the intention to steal jewellery and confessed to the murder once the plan failed. Security personnel recovered a knife used in the attack, along with other incriminating items. Police say further legal proceedings are underway and the accused remains in custody.

The incident has shocked residents and traders in the area, prompting calls for greater security and regular patrols to prevent similar acts of violence.