11 kg gold, Rs 36 lakh looted from Andhra bank, police suspect planned heist

Unidentified individuals looted over 11 kilograms of gold ornaments and Rs 36 lakh in cash from a State Bank of India (SBI) branch in Hindupuram, Sri Sathya Sai district in Andhra Pradesh, in what police suspect to be a meticulously planned break-in.

The incident took place at the branch located near the Thumukunta Checkpost, with preliminary findings indicating that the culprits gained entry by cutting through the window grills at the rear of the bank. Once inside, they disabled the CCTV system by severing the wiring and forcibly opened the locker where the valuables were stored.

A complaint was filed by bank officials on discovering the robbery, prompting the police to launch an immediate investigation. A forensic team has examined the scene and collected fingerprints and other material evidence to help identify those involved.

According to police sources, the branch was left without any security guards at the time of the incident. Investigators believe the robbers exploited the location of the branch along Chamindu Road and accessed the premises from the rear, suggesting prior reconnaissance and coordination.

Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding buildings and shops and are in the process of mapping potential escape routes. A case has been registered, and a special investigation team has been constituted to follow up on leads.

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