400-Year-Old Astadhatu Cannon Stolen from Rajasthan Recovered by MP Police

Recovered in Karauli District, Rajasthan

A valuable 400-year-old cannon, weighing approximately 3500 kilograms and stolen from the historic Narwar Fort in Madhya Pradesh on the night of July 15-16, 2026, has been recovered by the Madhya Pradesh Police in the Karauli district of Rajasthan.

Following the high-profile theft, the Madhya Pradesh Police had been actively engaged in a joint search operation with local police in the village of Gaonra Meena, located in the Hindaun area of Karauli district, Rajasthan. This historic cannon was considered a significant heritage of the Shivpuri district, and its disappearance had raised questions about the region's security arrangements.

Intensive Search Operation Leads to Recovery

As a result of continuous and intensive police investigation, the cannon was found in the Karauli region of Rajasthan, marking a significant success in solving the case. Following the theft from Narwar Fort, police had initiated investigations at potential locations.

Based on clues obtained during the investigation, a search operation was conducted in the Karauli region of Rajasthan. This search involved a joint team of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan police, with over 60 personnel deployed. Police also utilized JCB machines to excavate suspected areas, aiming to uncover any clues related to the cannon.

Suspected Motive: Misconception about Astadhatu

Police suspect that the thieves targeted this ancient cannon under the mistaken belief that it was made of Astadhatu. There is a belief that Astadhatu is an alloy of eight different metals, including gold, which could make it extremely valuable. It is this greed that may have driven the thieves to attempt the theft of such a heavy and historic artifact.

However, police are also investigating the actual composition of the metals in the cannon and the true motive behind the theft. A detailed investigation will be conducted following the recovery.

Questions Raised on Heritage Security

Narwar Fort is one of the prominent historical heritages of the Shivpuri district in Madhya Pradesh. The massive cannon housed here was considered a symbol of the region's glorious history. The incident of its theft has not only upset local residents but has also raised serious questions about the security of historical heritage sites.

The police are currently taking continuous action to securely recover the stolen cannon and apprehend all individuals involved in this act.