In a daring act that unfolded amidst a precarious law and order situation, the heart of Ukhrul town witnessed a brazen heist at the Punjab National Bank (PNB) located in Viewland-I, one of the bustling main markets. The staggering amount of Rs. 18.85 crore was looted in a meticulously orchestrated robbery that transpired around 5:40 pm on 30th November.
Approximately ten masked and heavily armed individuals carried out the brazen robbery, catching both bank officials and security forces off guard. The criminals seized the moment just as the bank staff was concluding their day’s work, exploiting the vulnerable situation. Fortunately, no customers were present during the incident, mitigating potential harm.
The daring robbers managed to escape with a staggering amount of Rs. 18.85 crore, leaving the town in shock and law enforcement agencies scrambling to apprehend the culprits. The scale and precision of the heist underscore the challenges posed to the security infrastructure in the region.
The armed gang took the bank officials hostage, displaying alarming precision in their execution. Despite the presence of around eight personnel from the 6th Manipur Rifles, who were presumably stationed for security measures, the criminals managed to overpower them and seize control of the situation. The swift and efficient nature of the heist left authorities stunned.
Reports suggest that all available cash in the bank branch was taken by the perpetrators. The incident mirrors a similar occurrence in July when miscreants looted an Axis Bank branch in Ukhrul, making off with 1 crore in cash and other valuables.
The Manipur police have launched extensive search operations to apprehend the unidentified criminals responsible for the daring robbery. The incident highlights the pressing need for bolstered security measures in the region, as law enforcement grapples with the challenge of ensuring the safety of financial institutions in the face of such audacious criminal activities.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for enhanced security measures and vigilance in the face of criminal activities. Authorities are now actively investigating the robbery, seeking to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for the audacious act. The local community and law enforcement agencies are on high alert as they work towards restoring a sense of security in Ukhrul town following this unprecedented heist.
