Patna, Dec 1 (IANS) The Bihar government has taken serious note of the theft of an antique idol of Lord Mahavira of over two millennia old and recommended a CBI probe into it, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said on Tuesday.

"I have recommended a CBI probe into the theft of the antique idol of Lord Mahavira," Nitish Kumar said. "I have directed top police officials to ensure the recovery of the stolen idol."

The Jain community and art lovers were shocked after the black stone idol was stolen from a temple in Jamui district on November 27.

According to police, the idol weighed about 250 kg.

Bihar Police chief P.K. Thakur said the inspector general of the economic offences wing and the CID have been probing the disappearance of the idol.

"A special team has been set up for the recovery of the stolen idol worth crores in the international market," Thakur said.

Police in Jamui strongly suspect an organised gang of antique smugglers to be behind the theft. They have raided several places but have so far failed to make any breakthrough.