What Happened During the Armed Robbery at HDFC Bank in Madhupur, Jharkhand?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Major robbery occurred at HDFC Bank in Madhupur.
- Robbers reportedly stole over Rs 1 crore.
- The heist took only 20 minutes.
- Police are investigating with a special team.
- Community is concerned about bank safety.
Deoghar (Jharkhand), Sep 22 (NationPress) In a dramatic daylight heist on Monday, armed robbers executed a brazen theft at the HDFC Bank branch located on Rajbari Road in Madhupur, Deoghar district, officials reported. The assailants absconded with a substantial sum of cash and a significant quantity of jewellery, with initial assessments indicating that the total value of the stolen items could surpass Rs 1 crore.
The robbery unfolded between 12:45 p.m. and 1 p.m., creating a wave of panic in the lively Madhupur Bazaar area.
Eyewitness accounts describe how two individuals donned in helmets and burqas initially entered the bank premises, later joined by four accomplices.
Brandishing pistols, the robbers coerced both employees and customers into surrendering their possessions, seizing mobile phones to hinder any attempts to contact law enforcement.
Multiple witnesses reported that the gang did not shy away from employing violence, assaulting anyone who resisted, thereby instilling a climate of fear within the bank.
In a span of approximately 20 minutes, the robbers filled bags with cash, gold coins, and other valuables from the counters and customers. They reportedly managed to access lockers, fleeing with jewellery worth several lakhs of rupees.
Before making their escape, the gang secured the bank's main shutter from the outside. By the time bystanders recognized the gravity of the situation, the criminals had already disappeared.
The police arrived swiftly following notifications. Officers from the Madhupur police station, alongside the SDPO and Inspector in charge, commenced an initial investigation.
Subsequently, Superintendent of Police Kumar Saurabh arrived at the scene and established a special investigation team to pursue the suspects. Surveillance footage from the bank and its surroundings is under thorough examination.
While the bank and police have not confirmed the precise amount stolen, preliminary evaluations suggest the loot may exceed Rs 1 crore. The police have cordoned off the vicinity and initiated searches at potential hideouts.
Authorities assert that the perpetrators will be apprehended soon.
This audacious heist has sparked significant concern regarding the security measures in place at banks.