In the early hours of September 27, a break-in was reported at an ATM kiosk of the State Bank of India (SBI) in Mapranam, a town near Thrissur, Kerala. The local police were alerted at 2:35 a.m. and arrived at the scene within 10 minutes. Upon reviewing CCTV footage, officers initiated a vehicle check throughout the district.
Shortly after, a second SBI ATM was targeted in Naikkanal, approximately 20 km away, followed by a third break-in in Kolazhy village, escalating concerns regarding ATM security in the region. Police reports indicated that over ₹33 lakh was stolen from the first ATM, ₹25 lakh from the second, and ₹9 lakh from the third location.
By 5:30 a.m., investigators had identified a white mid-size SUV without a license plate present at all crime scenes from the CCTV footage. This lead allowed authorities to start tracking the suspect vehicle. R. Ilango, the District Police Chief for Thrissur City, shared this critical information with his counterparts in neighboring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Further investigations revealed that ATM surveillance cameras had been compromised prior to the heists, with evidence indicating the use of a gas cutter during the robberies. Ilango noted the similarities to past cases involving a ‘gas cutter gang’ known for ATM thefts in multiple states.
ATM Security Breaches Prompt Police Response
With dawn approaching, police collected crucial information about the gangs likely involved and their tactics. Special attention was given to SBI ATMs, which are frequently targeted due to their substantial cash reserves. Officers discovered that these criminal networks often collaborate with truck drivers to transport stolen goods discreetly.
In response to the emerging situation, Superintendent of Police S. Rajesh Kannan acted swiftly by alerting officers about potential escape routes for the suspects. Police checkpoints were established on major highways, specifically looking for the described vehicle and any container truck associated with the gang.
As police personnel set up barricades, one officer noted a vehicle that seemed to evade capture, resulting in a high-speed chase through Namakkal district. The pursuit reached its climax when the police decided to block the truck’s path, leading to a tense confrontation.
Public Participation in Police Chase
Witnesses described the chaos as motorists, including a local transport driver, joined police in the chase, spotting the fleeing container truck. Near a petrol station, the suspect vehicle ultimately came to a halt after colliding with several other vehicles.
In a dramatic turn, the driver attempted to flee on foot after a police officer was reportedly assaulted during the arrest process. This led to a chaotic scene where officers had no choice but to respond with lethal force, resulting in injuries and fatalities among the suspects. The police emphasized the need for decisive action given the threat posed by these criminals.
Director General of Police Shankar Jiwal confirmed the ongoing investigation and collaboration with SBI to trace the operational patterns of various ATM robbery gangs across the country. Law enforcement is determined to tighten security measures in light of these brazen crimes.
Investigation and Community Impact
The investigation unearthed details about the gang’s travel from Haryana to Tamil Nadu, indicating their well-coordinated planning. Local authorities stressed the importance of community vigilance to prevent future incidents and urged citizens to report any suspicious activities promptly.
As investigations continue, the authorities remain vigilant, working across state lines to dismantle these criminal networks that threaten public safety and security. Police assert that enhanced communication and shared intelligence will be vital in addressing the rampant issue of ATM thefts.
Published – October 05, 2024 03:07 am IST
