Thieves Loot 59 Kg Gold from Karnataka Bank Over Long Weekend; Police Launch Massive Hunt
In a daring heist that unfolded over a long weekend, thieves broke into the Mangoli branch of Canara Bank in Karnataka’s Vijayapura district and made off with a staggering 59 kilograms of gold. The gold belonged to loan customers who had pledged their ornaments as collateral.
According to Vijayapura Superintendent of Police Laxman B. Nimbargi, the theft was discovered when the branch reopened after the weekend. The bank had closed on the evening of May 23 and remained shut on May 24 and 25 due to the fourth Saturday and Sunday.
When a bank peon returned on May 26 to clean the premises, he was shocked to find the shutter locks broken. The police were immediately notified. Upon inspection, it became clear that the bank had been burgled, and a significant amount of gold—valued at crores of rupees—was missing.
The stolen gold had been deposited by customers against gold loans, making the theft not just a loss for the bank but also a personal tragedy for numerous individuals who had entrusted their valuables for financial support.
SP Nimbargi stated that eight police teams have been formed to crack the case. Investigators believe the theft occurred during the night between May 24 and 25, when the bank was closed.
“Our investigation is in full swing. We are confident that we will catch the culprits and bring them to justice,” said Nimbargi, assuring the public that every effort is being made to solve the case swiftly.
The high-value theft has raised questions about the security arrangements at financial institutions, particularly during extended closures, and sparked widespread concern among gold loan customers.
News Source : Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
