In a meticulously planned robbery, burglars broke into an SBI ATM in Sambra village, Belagavi, on the Belagavi-Bagalkot road, during the late hours of Tuesday and early Wednesday. Using a gas cutter, the criminals sliced open the ATM’s chest from its locked side and escaped with all the cash inside.

Brazen theft in a busy locality

The exact amount stolen is yet to be determined. What makes the heist shocking is that it occurred in an area bustling with people and vehicles at all hours, raising concerns over security lapses.

Investigation underway

Belagavi Police Commissioner Iada Martin Marbaniang inspected the scene, reviewing how the ATM’s security was breached. Bank officials provided insights into the ATM’s structure and the method used to access the cash vault.

The Marihal police have launched an intensive probe to trace the perpetrators and their getaway method. Authorities are also examining CCTV footage from nearby streets and establishments to gather leads.