Crime News / ATM Loot Attempt near Begunia Police Station Fails

Khordha, Sep 22: In a daring incident that has raised serious questions about local policing, miscreants attempted to loot an Axis Bank ATM located barely 50 meters from Begunia police station late Monday night.

According to reports, the ATM machine was completely damaged in the attack, but the cash box remained untouched, leaving the loot attempt unsuccessful. The incident is being seen as an open challenge to the police, given its proximity to the station.

The ATM, housed in a small room alongside the bank branch, had no security guard on duty at night. CCTV footage revealed that around 2:22 am, a youth wearing a helmet entered the kiosk armed with a crowbar.

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He tried to break open the machine but was startled when the security siren suddenly went off. Frightened, he fled the spot.

However, just a minute later, when the siren stopped, the same youth returned and continued his efforts until 4:36 am. Despite smashing the machine completely, he failed to access the cash box. On Tuesday morning, bank officials discovered the damage and lodged a complaint with Begunia police.

Police reached the spot and began investigation. In the presence of bank authorities, the ATM cash box was checked and confirmed to be intact, with all money safe.

The incident has sparked outrage among locals, who questioned how an ATM could be vandalized for over two hours right next to a police station without officers noticing. Many blamed lax night patrolling for emboldening criminals to attempt such audacious acts.

Police have launched a probe based on CCTV footage and are working to identify and apprehend the accused.