A shocking heist at the Kotekar Agricultural Service Co-Operative Society branch in Thalapady has raised concerns about security. Six individuals are suspected to have carried out the crime, with eyewitnesses and bank staff reporting that four of the robbers entered the premises, while two stayed outside.
Surprisingly, toll booth workers reported that only two people were in the car that passed through the booth. CCTV footage confirmed that the front passenger seat was vacant, with only the driver visible. It’s believed that one or two additional robbers were seated in the back.
The toll booth cashier confirmed that the driver paid Rs 150, receiving Rs 40 as change. The driver’s face, partially masked, was captured on camera. After the robbery, the group apparently split into two, using another vehicle to flee the scene. The second group is thought to have moved the stolen gold towards Kerala or Karnataka.
Kerala connection
Discussions with Kerala police began immediately, with footage from Thalapady to Uppala being analyzed. By Saturday, CCTV from Kerala’s highways was reviewed in an attempt to trace the robbers.
Suspects’ escape route
Footage showed the car passing through Kallapu and heading toward KC Road, where the robbery took place. The attack occurred when local stores were closed for prayers, providing cover for the crime.
Fake number plate identified
The car’s number plate, registered to a Maruti Ertiga, was found to be fake, a tactic used to mislead authorities.
Meticulous planning
The robbery appeared carefully planned, with robbers gathering intelligence in advance. Using two cars and disposing of a staff member’s mobile phone were part of the strategy to confuse investigators.
Ongoing investigation
Kasargod police have stepped up their efforts, with special teams formed to track down the suspects. Despite extensive searches, the vehicle remains elusive. The authorities are optimistic that the case will be solved soon.
Read also: