UK-Based Indian Restaurant Owner Acts as Sleuth Following Burglary Incident
Padharo Restaurant Reopens After Burglary
The popular vegetarian restaurant, Padharo, located on East Street in Southampton, has reopened its doors to the public following a burglary that took place on July 31, 2025. The incident left the restaurant with extensive damage and the loss of several expensive alcohol bottles and cash.
Ankit Vaghela, the owner of Padharo, called the police via emergency (999) after discovering the break-in. However, officers did not attend the scene, instead asking him to email CCTV footage of the three identified suspects. The police investigation is currently underway, with forensics not available at the time, and the offenders having fled the scene.
Vaghela personally reviewed the CCTV footage, retraced the burglars' steps, and documented the damage. Despite the setback, the restaurant reopened quickly, though it faces operational difficulties without a working cash register. The restaurant's determination to continue providing the same level of service it is known for in the city remains unwavering.
This is not the first time Padharo has been a target for burglaries in the city centre, with other businesses similarly affected. The restaurant's community support has been positive, with Vaghela determined to maintain the restaurant's reputation for service despite the challenges.
The restaurant will celebrate its fourth anniversary later this month. Just a few days before the burglary, members of the Indian women's cricket team, including Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, visited the restaurant. Vaghela expressed his disappointment that the police would not attend the scene immediately and that they would review the damage in three to five working days.
Despite these difficulties, Padharo remains open for business, relying on its community for support. The restaurant's resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to its strength and commitment to serving the people of Southampton.
[1] Hampshire police statement on the burglary at Padharo. [2] Ankit Vaghela's statement on the damage caused by the burglary. [3] Local community support for Padharo following the burglary. [4] The ongoing investigation into the burglary at Padharo by Hampshire police. [5] Previous break-in at Padharo and the lack of stolen items.
The burglary incident at Padharo, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Southampton, has caused complications in their financial management, as several expensive items and cash were stolen, leading to operational difficulties. Despite these challenges, the restaurant continues its operations in the general-news sector, demonstrating resilience and commitment to its business and the service it provides to the community. Meanwhile, the Hampshire police are investigating the crime-and-justice matter, with the offenders still at large, as forensics were unavailable at the scene.
