How Did Rs 70 Lakh Disappear from an ATM Van in Bihar?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The recent theft of Rs 70 lakh from an ATM cash van in Chhapra, Bihar, raises pressing questions about security protocols and the behavior of the crew involved. This incident highlights the vulnerabilities in cash transport security and the ongoing investigations into this audacious heist.
Key Takeaways
- Rs 70 lakh stolen from an ATM cash van in Chhapra.
- Investigation focuses on crew's suspicious behavior.
- CCTV footage shows a suspicious vehicle at the time of theft.
- Special Investigation Team established to probe the incident.
- Authorities are confident in resolving the case soon.
Patna, May 10 (NationPress) In a shocking incident, Rs 70 lakh was stolen from an ATM cash van in Bihar's Chhapra district on Friday, prompting serious inquiries into the actions of the van's crew.
The theft took place near Hathua Market, within the jurisdiction of the Town police station, as reported by Raj Kishore Singh, the State Divisional Police Officer of the Sadar range of Saran police.
The stolen funds were collected from a branch of Punjab National Bank (PNB) and were stored inside the cash van while the crew went to retrieve an additional Rs 28 lakh from an ICICI Bank branch.
Upon their return, the crew reported that the van's lock had been tampered with and Rs 70 lakh was missing.
Four cash van employees—including two custodians, a security guard, and the driver—have been detained for questioning, although they have not been formally arrested yet. Singh remarked that their behavior was “suspicious.”
“According to safety protocols, the driver is required to remain with the van at all times,” SDPO Singh stated. “However, in this case, the driver also entered the bank, which raises questions.”
CCTV footage from the area captured a suspicious vehicle parked behind the cash van during the theft.
Authorities are currently working to track down this vehicle and identify potential suspects involved in the crime.
A Special Investigation Team has been established to investigate the case, and a report has been filed against unidentified individuals at the Town police station in Chhapra.
“The situation seems dubious at first glance. We are examining every angle. The circumstances under which such a significant sum went missing are being scrutinized,” Singh added.
The cash van is operated by Hitachi Company, which provides ATM cash replenishment and collection services in the area. Officials from Hitachi have also been asked to participate in the investigation.
Police officials express confidence that they will resolve the case promptly, with several leads currently being pursued.
Point of View
This incident exposes critical flaws in the security measures surrounding cash transport. The involvement of the crew raises significant doubts, and while investigations are ongoing, it is imperative for banks and security firms to reassess their protocols to prevent such heists in the future.
NationPress
21/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Chhapra, Bihar?
Rs 70 lakh was stolen from an ATM cash van in Chhapra, raising serious concerns about the security protocols followed.
Who has been detained in connection with the theft?
Four employees of the cash van, including two custodians, a security guard, and the driver, have been detained for questioning.
What is the current status of the investigation?
A Special Investigation Team has been formed, and authorities are actively pursuing leads to identify suspects related to the heist.
What security measures are in place for cash vans?
Typically, drivers are required to remain with the van at all times, and protocols must be strictly followed to ensure cash safety.
Who operates the cash van involved in this incident?
The cash van is operated by Hitachi Company, which provides ATM cash refilling and collection services in the area.
