A six-member gang broke open a pawnshop and decamped with five sovereigns gold, silver articles weighing two kilo grams and Rs. 5000 cash.

According to police, the dacoits gained entry into Viswa Pawnshop located on the main road in Devarayanpettai village after boring a huge hole in its rear wall. They tied the watchman, Rajendran (29), who was lying down in front of the shop, with a rope and threw him into a nearby irrigation channel.

The burglary came to light when a passersby found Rajendran in the channel. He informed the shop owner, Muthamilselvan, past president of Lions Club and resident of Aatrankarai Street, Devarayanpettai.

On information, Superintendent of Police J. Mahesh and DSP P. Selvaraj of Papanasam sub division, rushed to the spot and conducted inquiry.

The Papanasam police have registered a case and are investigating.