Bhubaneswar, Jan 19: A daring armed robbery at the Bank of Maharashtra branch on Kalinga Road in Barbil town of Keonjhar district on Monday triggered panic in the busy mining hub. According to reports, five to six unidentified miscreants entered the bank during business hours on the pretext of seeking customer service.
Moments later, the gang pulled out firearms, threatened bank staff and customers, and took complete control of the premises. The robbers are suspected to have looted around ₹8 lakh in cash and gold ornaments worth over ₹5 crore kept inside the bank before fleeing the scene.
Terrified customers and employees raised an alarm after the accused escaped. Following the incident, Barbil police rushed to the spot and began an intensive investigation. CCTV footage from the bank and nearby areas is being examined to identify the culprits. Police have also set up blockades at several strategic points across the district to prevent the miscreants from fleeing.
A case has been registered, though the exact amount of cash and valuables looted is yet to be officially confirmed. Senior officials said further investigation is underway to track down the accused.
The shocking incident has raised serious concerns about the security arrangements at financial institutions in Barbil, with locals demanding stricter surveillance and safety measures.
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