Indian Woman Accused of Theft in the U.S., Caught Stealing Items Worth ₹1 Lakh from Store
Washington D.C. – 16 July – (www.deccanlive.com): An Indian woman has been accused of shoplifting items worth over ₹1 lakh (approx. \$1,200) from a supermarket in Illinois, USA. According to the police, the woman spent around seven hours inside the store and tried to leave without paying.
The incident took place on May 1, 2025, but the video has now gone viral on social media. The woman has been identified as Anaya Avalani. Store employees grew suspicious of her behavior and contacted the police.
She Tried to Bribe the Police
A staff member said the woman was roaming inside the store without any clear purpose. She was repeatedly seen picking items, putting them in her cart, then removing them and walking to another aisle.
Eventually, she tried to exit the store without making any payment. The staff triggered the security alert and called the police.
When the police arrived, it is alleged that the woman offered them money to settle the matter. She tried to bribe the officers.
“I’m Not From This Country, Please Forgive Me”
The woman reportedly told the officers, “If I caused any trouble, I apologize. I’m not a citizen of this country, and I don’t intend to stay here. I’m ready to pay for all the items.”
A female officer sternly replied, “Is stealing allowed in India? I don’t think so.”
Upon checking, the police confirmed that the woman had not paid for any of the items, and she was handcuffed on the spot and taken to the police station. A legal case was registered under felony charges (a serious crime).
Not Yet Arrested, But Serious Charges Likely
Although she has not been officially arrested yet, serious charges are expected soon. If convicted, such crimes can affect a person’s visa status, green card application, or even lead to deportation.
Social Media Reactions: “Don’t Shame India”
The video received strong backlash online.
One user wrote: “How can a guest in a country dare to break the law?”
Another said: “There was no language or cultural barrier—she knew what she was doing.”
A third commented: “Please don’t bring shame to India on the global stage.”
Just recently, another Indian student in Texas was also accused of theft, raising concerns over the image and legal consequences for Indian nationals abroad.
