Ahmedabad Bank Break-in Attempt: Intruder Flees Without Cash or Valuables
An unidentified man attempted to break into a branch of Bank of India in the early hours of Sunday but fled without stealing any cash or valuables, according to police officials in Ahmedabad. The incident came to light on Monday morning when bank staff arrived at the Ashram Road branch, which is located opposite HK Arts and Commerce College.
Complaint Filed and Initial Findings
A formal complaint was filed with the Navrangpura police by Prahlad Pandit, the chief manager of the branch. According to the complaint, a bank official alerted the manager after a staff member noticed clear signs of forced entry at the premises.
When the manager reached the bank, he discovered a window near the restroom lobby that had been broken. The iron bars on the window were cut using a sharp tool and bent upwards, indicating a deliberate attempt to gain access. Several iron lockers in the lobby area were also found open, suggesting the intruder had searched through them.
Detailed Inspection Reveals Limited Access
Further inspection of the bank premises revealed that drawers of tables in three chambers inside the cash section had been opened. Additionally, one safe was found unlocked. However, the main vault room, where valuables and significant cash reserves are typically stored, remained intact and securely locked.
This suggests that the intruder failed to access the most secure area of the bank, which likely prevented any substantial theft from occurring. Police officials noted that the suspect's inability to breach the vault room was a key factor in the failed attempt.
CCTV Footage Analysis
CCTV footage reviewed by bank officials showed a lone intruder entering the premises at around 2:26 AM on February 1 through the broken window. The man was wearing a sweater and track pants, along with a cap, muffler, and gloves, effectively concealing his identity. He was also carrying a tool that resembled a hex blade, which was likely used to cut the iron bars.
The footage captured the intruder first opening lockers near the window before moving into the filing room. He later entered the cash room through an unlocked door, where he inspected drawers and briefly searched near the passbook printing desk. At around 2:39 AM, he exited the premises through the same window he had used for entry.
Police stated that the footage did not indicate any cash or items being taken by the intruder. "It appears to be a failed theft attempt. The suspect likely fled after being unable to access the vault," an officer involved in the investigation said.
Police Action and Case Registration
The Navrangpura police have registered a case of attempted theft and damage to property based on the complaint filed by the bank manager. Investigations are ongoing to identify the suspect and determine the full extent of the damage caused during the break-in attempt.
This incident highlights the importance of robust security measures at financial institutions, even as the intruder's failure to access the vault demonstrates the effectiveness of certain safeguards. Authorities are urging banks and other businesses to review their security protocols to prevent similar attempts in the future.
