Bantwal: The Bantwal Rural Police have arrested a 33-year-old man in connection with the attempted burglary at a bank in Farangipet, where unidentified miscreants allegedly broke into the premises by drilling through the roof in an attempt to steal cash and gold ornaments. The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the incident, which was reported earlier this month.
The arrested accused has been identified as Mohammed Shakhir (33), a resident of Maripalla in Bantwal. Police said he was taken into custody on Wednesday, July 22, following sustained investigation into the case.
Burglary bid through bank roof
According to the police, the attempted burglary took place at a bank located in Farangipet under the jurisdiction of the Bantwal Rural Police Station.
Investigators said the accused and his associates allegedly drilled a hole through the roof of the bank building to gain entry into the premises. The suspects are believed to have planned to steal cash and gold ornaments kept inside the bank.
However, the burglary attempt did not succeed, and the incident came to light shortly afterwards. Police launched an investigation to identify those involved and gather evidence from the scene.
The method adopted by the accused, involving entry through the roof, prompted investigators to examine the crime scene thoroughly and collect forensic and technical evidence to trace those responsible.
Case registered under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
Following the incident, the Bantwal Rural Police registered a case on July 13 in Crime No. 106/2026.
The case has been booked under Sections 331(3), 331(4), 305(a), and 62 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, relating to offences connected with house-breaking, attempted theft and criminal acts committed in furtherance of a common intention.
Police began an extensive investigation after registering the case, analysing available evidence and pursuing multiple leads to identify the accused involved in the attempted break-in.
Accused arrested during investigation
As part of the investigation, police arrested Mohammed Shakhir from Maripalla in Bantwal.
Officials said the accused is currently being questioned to ascertain his role in the crime and to determine whether other individuals were involved in planning and executing the attempted burglary.
Investigators are also trying to establish whether the accused has any connection to similar offences reported in the region and whether the burglary was carried out by an organised group targeting financial institutions.
Probe continues
Police said further investigation is underway to trace the remaining suspects, if any, and recover any tools or materials allegedly used during the attempted break-in.
Officials have not ruled out additional arrests as the investigation progresses. They are examining technical evidence, witness statements and other material collected during the course of the probe.
The Bantwal Rural Police reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of financial institutions and taking strict action against those involved in property crimes. They appealed to members of the public to share any information that could assist the investigation.
With one accused now in custody, investigators are continuing efforts to unravel the full conspiracy behind the attempted bank burglary and bring all those responsible before the law.