LUCKNOW, June 28 -- What appeared to be a blessing from a wandering 'holy man' turned into an alleged theft that has exposed a con that preys on faith and distraction. Lucknow police on Saturday arrested two men from Delhi, alleging they posed as 'aghori sadhus' and tricked unsuspecting people into handing over valuables under the guise of performing rituals for their well-being. Police said one of the accused distracted a woman by offering her a flower while allegedly slipping a ring off her finger. The arrests were made nearly 10 days after Jankipuram resident Shambhavi Shukla approaching Madiaon police, alleging that a man dressed as a holy man promised to "improve her fortunes" and eradicate her problems. As he handed her a flower during the purported ritual, her ring allegedly disappeared without her noticing. "Acting on CCTV footage and a tip-off, police intercepted two suspects near Bhitauli flyover on Saturday. They were identified as Sakib Nath, 28, and Arun, 27, both residents of south Delhi. Police recovered Rs.31,700 in cash, which they suspect is part of the proceeds from stolen jewellery sold after similar thefts," said Madiaon SHO Shivanand Mishra.According to police, the accused targeted people in public places by first gaining their trust through religious symbolism. One of them, dressed as a sadhu, would engage the victim in conversation and offer prayers or blessings, while using sleight of hand to remove jewellery. The stolen ornaments were then allegedly sold to passersby for quick cash. "The accused were identified through CCTV footage and apprehended after receiving specific information about their movement. Further investigation is underway to identify other members of the gang and similar incidents linked to them," the SHO added. Police said Sakib has two previous criminal cases registered in Gautam Buddha Nagar, while Arun has one theft and cheating case registered in Agra....