Bandarban shocked by gunfire in 2 more bank robbery attempts

In a daring display of violence and audacity, armed terrorists executed two bank robberies within the span of a day in Bandarban district, plunging the region into a state of fear and chaos. The incidents, which occurred in Ruma and Thanchi, targeted branches of Sonali and Krishi Bank, shaking the foundations of security in the area. The first robbery took place on Tuesday (April 2) evening at approximately 8:30 PM in Ruma, where a group of armed militants, believed to be affiliated with the Pahar armed terrorist group known as Kuki Chin National Front (KNF), descended upon the Sonali Bank branch. Witnesses reported that over a hundred gunmen surrounded the market mosque and bank, effectively taking hostages and seizing control of the premises. During the brazen heist, the assailants forcibly disarmed 10 police officers and 4 Ansar members who were stationed for security, leaving them defenseless against the onslaught. The terrorists then proceeded to loot an astonishing amount of Tk 1 crore 59 lakh from the bank's vault, further exacerbating the gravity of the situation. As they made their escape, the manager of Sonali Bank was abducted, adding a chilling dimension to the already harrowing ordeal. The following day, on Wednesday (April 3), another bank robbery rattled the district, this time striking the Krishi Bank branch in Thanchi. Around 12:30 PM, armed terrorists arrived at Thanchi Bazar in two vehicles, swiftly dividing into two groups and launching an assault on the bank. Witnesses and local sources recounted how the perpetrators attempted to rob the bank's officers and employees, resorting to extreme measures such as locking them in a room.
Published on: 2024-04-03 10:32:15.917614 +0200 CEST