Punjab National Bank heist: Armed men swipe Rs 18.85 crore from PNB in Manipur's Ukhrul
Punjab National Bank heist: A brazen robbery unfolded in Manipur's Ukhrul district as ten unidentified armed individuals executed a meticulously planned theft, absconding with a staggering sum of Rs 18.85 crore from the Punjab National Bank (PNB). The audacious incident marked the third such bank robbery since the eruption of ethnic tensions on May 3 in Manipur.
As dusk settled on Thursday evening, the tranquility of the area was shattered by the sudden intrusion of armed perpetrators into the PNB premises. Despite the completion of transactional and deposit operations for the day, the bank's manager and staff remained engaged inside, securing the main gate's closure.
The assailants, utilising an entrance usually exclusive to bank personnel, launched their incursion. In a swift and calculated move, they overpowered the manager and a security officer stationed near the Strong Room. Unleashing a calculated strike, the gang successfully absconded with the substantial sum of Rs 18.85 crore.
Security footage captured within the bank premises unveiled a harrowing scene. The perpetrators brandished an assortment of weapons, prominently displaying AK rifles while adorned in a mix of olive green, khaki uniforms, and tracksuits. M Kumuni, the manager overseeing the bank, disclosed that an assigned team of eight personnel was responsible for safeguarding the premises. However, the heist occurred with not all security personnel present, leaving the establishment vulnerable during the robbery.
Law enforcement swiftly responded by registering a case in connection with the brazen incident. Authorities are poised to rigorously question all bank staff and security personnel, aiming to glean crucial information to aid in the investigation. The meticulously planned robbery stands as a stark reminder of the heightened tensions prevailing in Manipur, warranting increased vigilance and security measures to safeguard against such audacious criminal activities.
- With inputs from agencies
