Paralakhemundi,(Tarini Prasad Panda): In a remarkable display of prompt policing, the Paralakhemundi police solved a Rs 5 lakh daylight robbery within just 40 minutes, arresting two accused and recovering the entire stolen amount.
The robbery took place outside the State Bank of India’s main branch when M. Suriya Rao of Sailada village withdrew Rs 5 lakh for house construction. The miscreants allegedly distracted him by dropping currency notes on the road and fled with the cash-filled bag while he bent to pick them up.
On receiving the complaint, IIC Prashant Kumar Bhupati immediately launched a town-wide operation by sealing all entry and exit points and conducting an intensive search. The police intercepted and arrested two suspects within 40 minutes and seized the entire looted cash.
Preliminary investigation suggests that four persons were involved in the crime. However, the identities of the accused have not yet been disclosed as the investigation is continuing.
Expressing gratitude to the police, the victim said the IIC had assured him that the money would be recovered quickly and fulfilled the promise within 40 minutes.
The swift action has drawn widespread appreciation from residents of Paralakhemundi. Police suspect the involvement of an interstate gang from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, though further investigation is underway.
