Random Encounter

[Sneaky Pete]

Not being a PnP AD&D type myself, I had a random encounter in the area around the town. It was with a 'traditional"adventuring party. They challenged me as a brigand;which I'm not (alignment of party is NG).
They then told me they were going to rob an idol that had "gems as big as your arms". (I think is what it said).
Anyway, my question is: Is this an inside or overt reference to another AD&D module?
BTW I did kill them once just to see if affected my reputation. (It did not-No witnesses I guess. They were relatively easy to beat and did not have any good stuff.
Before anyone asks, I did not kill them in the saved version. I was just curious what would happen or how tough the encounter. Any comments?

[Raumoheru]

ive seen em
but they say the gems are as big as ur head not arms

[Sneaky Pete]

DOH!