Reward offered for stolen items

Leaders of a Hindu temple are offering a reward for the return of religious statues and other objects stolen from their sanctuary about two weeks ago.

Three large copper and bronze statues of Hindu gods that weigh about 150 pounds each, two smaller statues, two musical instruments and 35 oil lamps were taken during the burglary, according to temple leader Rajah Nalliah.

The Hindu community is offering a $1,000 reward for the items’ return, he said.

Covina police urged anyone with information about the sacred objects to contact them at (626) 858-4413.

“These items are important to the temple and will cause a disruption of upcoming services and festivals,” a Police Department announcement said.

The temple did not have security alarms or other anti-theft precautions, but is installing them now, Nalliah said.

“We never thought anybody would steal the gods,” he said.