KOPPAL: Thieves in search of hidden treasures have desecrated the Shiva idol at the historical Somanatha temple at Shivapura village in the taluk.
The temple, atop a hill, is believed to be from the time of the Vijayanagara empire. The thieves have dug the spot where the idol has been installed and caused damage to it. The treasure hunters fled leaving behind a crowbar.
The desecration was discovered when the temple priest came on Friday morning for the daily rituals and informed the police. The Munirabad police are investigating.