Police arrested three individuals—including a minor—for attempting to loot an SBI ATM located in Sector-3 of Nalco Township, Damanjodi in Koraput district.
The incident occurred late on the night of September 8, when the accused tried to break into the ATM but were thwarted by the alertness of the on-duty security guard.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Sunil Bhatra (26), Jidikar Cheti (20), and one juvenile. According to Sunabeda SDPO Sumitra Jena, the trio fled the scene after failing to execute the robbery, leaving behind incriminating items such as iron rods, wire cutters, gloves, and a muffler.
Following a complaint lodged by SBI Damanjodi Branch Manager Subhashree Mohanty on September 9, a special investigation team led by Inspector Pramila Bidika, SI Deepak Kumar Panda, and ASI Dayanidhi Murja was formed. Using mobile phone tracking, police first apprehended Sunil near Nalco Gate. His interrogation led to the identification and arrest of the other two accused.
All three hail from Lula village under Dashmantpur Police Station in Koraput district. A case has been registered under Damanjodi PS Case No. 121/25, and the adult accused have been forwarded to court, while the minor has been sent to a juvenile correctional facility.
