Big Robbery in Indian Overseas Bank Chinhat Branch in Lucknow, 42 Lockers Broken and Jewellery Worth Crores Stolen
Lucknow: In a shocking incident, thieves broke into the Chinhat branch of Indian Overseas Bank over the weekend and stole jewellery and other valuables worth crores. The robbers entered the bank by breaking through two walls from an empty plot adjacent to the building, the police said.
How the Robbery Unfolded
The thieves reportedly used an electric cutter to break open 42 out of the bank’s 90 lockers. CCTV footage from inside the bank captured four individuals equipped with electric cutters, cutting through the lockers. Authorities suspect additional accomplices were stationed outside to provide updates and assistance to those inside.
The thieves remained inside the bank for 1.5 to 2 hours. They meticulously avoided lockers numbered 1 to 31, targeting lockers 32 to 79, many of which contained jewellery. The remaining lockers, numbered 80 to 90, were left untouched.
Discovery and Police Investigation
The robbery came to light on Sunday afternoon when a local furniture shop owner noticed the damaged wall while passing by the empty plot behind the bank. He immediately informed the police.
Police, along with forensic and dog squad teams, arrived at the scene to investigate. However, the dog squad could only trace the trail up to 200 meters from the spot, raising suspicions that the thieves either parked a vehicle nearby or used alternate means of escape.
Security Lapses at the Bank
The robbery has highlighted glaring security lapses at the branch:
- Only one CCTV camera was installed inside the bank, with no cameras monitoring the exterior.
- There was no security guard present during the incident.
- The bank’s alarm system was reportedly non-functional.
Authorities are also reviewing reports of a previous theft at the same branch three months ago, during which the ATM’s outdoor AC unit was stolen. Despite a complaint from the bank manager, the investigation at the time was superficial, and no substantial action was taken.
Response from Police and Bank Management
DCP East Shashank Singh stated that six police teams have been formed to investigate the incident. Initial findings suggest that four people entered the bank, taking advantage of the lax security arrangements.
The bank’s manager, Sandeep Singh, confirmed that ₹12 lakh in cash stored in a cupboard inside the bank was left untouched by the thieves. Locker holders have been informed, and an accurate estimate of the stolen valuables will be determined once all affected customers report their losses.
Public Reaction
The incident has left locker holders in shock. Many expressed frustration over the lack of security measures at the branch, saying they were unaware that there was no guard present.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining evidence from the scene and questioning the bank’s management about the security arrangements. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of customers’ valuables and the bank’s accountability.
