A snatching attempt involving ₹28 lakh in cash was reported in Balugaon, Khurda district, Odisha, on Wednesday. Two unidentified men allegedly attacked bank employees and tried to take away a bag containing the cash. The incident took place near the Balugaon branch of Punjab National Bank (PNB).
PNB Employees Carrying Cash From ATM
According to reports, PNB Balugaon branch cashier Ramesh Behera and bank employee Prashant Nayak had collected ₹28 lakh from an ATM located near the bank branch.
The cash was being carried by Behera in a large bag. The two employees were walking back towards the bank when the alleged attack took place.
While the employees were returning to the bank, two men reportedly arrived on a motorcycle. One of them allegedly sprayed a substance into Prashant Nayak’s face.
The suspects then tried to snatch the cash bag from Ramesh Behera. A struggle followed between the bank employees and the two men.
Suspects Escape Without Cash
The alleged snatching attempt was captured by CCTV cameras installed in the area. The footage reportedly shows the confrontation and the suspects trying to escape.
However, the two men failed to take the cash. They then fled towards Khurda on their motorcycle as people began gathering at the spot.
According to Behera, the motorcycle did not have a visible rear number plate. One of the suspects was wearing a full-face helmet.
Police Begin Investigation
Police reached the spot after the incident and started investigating the case. CCTV footage and other available evidence are being examined to identify and trace the suspects.
A detailed investigation is underway. Local police had not given an official comment on the incident at the time of the report.
The incident has also raised questions about the security arrangements used while moving large amounts of cash between an ATM and a nearby bank branch.
