Major Heist in Mangaluru: Robbers Steal Gold Worth ₹12 Crore
In a daring daylight robbery, a gang of five armed robbers looted gold worth over ₹12 crore and ₹5 lakh in cash from the Koteker Ullal Cooperative Bank in Karnataka’s Mangaluru district on Friday. The assailants threatened bank staff with guns, swords, and knives before fleeing the scene.
Details of the Incident
The robbery occurred at the K C Road branch of the bank. Eyewitness Usha, who lives opposite the bank, described the robbers dragging multiple bags of loot while wearing masks and caps. She recalled, “It was terrifying. They moved quickly, taking advantage of the empty streets as it was Friday.”
Possible Insider Involvement
Preliminary investigations suggest potential insider involvement, as the bank’s CCTV cameras were sent for repair on the day of the robbery. The police are probing this angle further.
Police Response and Challenges
The heist coincided with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s visit to Mangaluru, during which many officers were occupied with security arrangements. The robbers also exploited the area’s relative quietness, as many residents were away offering Friday prayers.
CM Siddaramaiah’s Emergency Meeting
The Chief Minister convened an emergency meeting with senior police officials, including West Range IGP Amit Singh and Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal. Expressing his displeasure, he questioned the ease with which the robbers escaped, demanding explanations for the lack of monitoring at toll plazas and insufficient security at the bank.
Ongoing Investigation
Police reported that the suspects communicated in Kannada and Hindi, and efforts are underway to trace their movements. Authorities are also examining nearby toll booths and gathering witness statements to identify the culprits.
This robbery follows another incident in Bidar, where two robbers shot an ATM cash van employee and stole ₹93 lakh, raising concerns about rising criminal activity in the state.
