Unidentified persons broke into the house of former Karnataka Chief Minister S Nijalingappa and made away with trophies including the "Karnataka Ratna" the highest civilian honour bestowed on him by the state. Police said it could not be ascertained when the incident occurred as the house of Nijalingappa, who ruled the state thrice as chief minister, remained locked for many months.

The culprits gained entry breaking open the rear door of the house and even took away a cauldron that had been erected on a cement bed for heating water,police said.