Armed robbers strike Manappuram gold loan office in Sambalpur, steal 30 kg of gold

Bhubaneswar, Jan 3: A group of armed robbers raided the Manappuram Gold Loan office on Budharaja Main Road in Sambalpur, Odisha, on Friday, making off with gold jewelry and cash after taking employees and customers hostage at gunpoint.

Reports indicate that the robbers escaped with approximately 30 kg of gold valued at several crores of rupees. The brazen daylight robbery has caused significant alarm and anxiety among local residents and the business community, raising concerns about the security of commercial establishments and their owners.

The heist involved around 10 armed robbers wielding firearms and sharp weapons, with some reportedly stationed outside the building to act as lookouts.

Senior police officials arrived at the scene shortly after the incident was reported, and an investigation is currently underway. Local authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and questioning employees and customers who were present during the robbery to gather evidence. Additionally, police patrols have been intensified, and residents have been advised to stay alert and report any suspicious behavior.