In a daring and well-orchestrated heist, unidentified individuals managed to rob a State Bank of India (SBI) branch located in Hindupuram, Sri Sathya Sai district of Andhra Pradesh. The thieves escaped with a staggering haul of more than 11 kilograms of gold ornaments and ₹36 lakh in cash. Authorities believe that this was not a random act but a carefully plotted crime executed under the cover of darkness.
The branch, situated near the Thumukunta Checkpost, was targeted late at night when no security personnel were present. The culprits reportedly entered the premises by cutting through iron window grills at the rear of the bank. Once inside, they disabled the CCTV surveillance system by cutting the wires and then broke into the main locker containing the cash and gold valuables.
The robbery was discovered the next morning by bank officials, who immediately lodged a formal complaint with the police. A forensic team was dispatched to the scene, where investigators collected fingerprints and other physical evidence in an attempt to identify the culprits. The precision and confidence with which the act was carried out suggest that the perpetrators had prior knowledge of the bank’s layout and routines.
Further investigations revealed that the bank's vulnerability was heightened by the absence of security guards. The robbers may have taken advantage of the branch’s secluded location on Chamindu Road, using the less-visible rear entrance for access and escape. This has led police to believe that extensive reconnaissance was carried out beforehand.
To aid the investigation, the authorities are currently analyzing CCTV footage from nearby shops and establishments in the area. The police are also mapping potential escape routes the criminals might have used following the heist. A special investigative team has been formed to trace leads and bring those responsible to justice, as the incident has raised serious concerns about security protocols at bank branches in remote areas.
