A daring theft at an SBI ATM on Kondaga Road in Umerkote town has triggered shock and concern across the region.
Thieves reportedly used a gas cutter to slice open the machine and escape with cash during the night.
Local residents discovered the damaged ATM early in the morning and alerted police. A team led by Umerkote police rushed to the spot and began an investigation. The exact amount of cash looted is being assessed in coordination with bank officials.
Police sources said CCTV footage from nearby cameras is being examined to identify the culprits. Preliminary investigation suggests the involvement of an organised criminal gang.
Taking the incident seriously, Nabarangpur SP Kashyap Partha Jagadish visited the site to oversee the probe. A mobile forensic team also collected technical evidence from the scene.
The brazen act has raised questions about the security of ATMs in Umerkote and nearby areas. Locals have urged banks and authorities to strengthen surveillance and deploy night guards to prevent similar incidents.
Police have intensified efforts to trace the gang and recover the stolen money.
