Bengaluru Robbery: Fake Police Officers Steal Rs 20 Lakh and Gold in Daylight Heist
In a shocking incident that has rattled the city, a gang of at least two robbers, masquerading as police personnel, executed a brazen daylight robbery at the residence of a civil contractor-cum-realtor in Bengaluru on Monday afternoon. The criminals made off with a staggering Rs 20 lakhs in cash and approximately 500 grams of gold from the victim's home in Byadarahalli, located in the north-west part of the city.
Victims and Incident Details
The victims, identified as Hombalegowda and his wife Mangalamma, reside with their son and daughter-in-law at BEL Layout. At the time of the robbery, their two-and-a-half-year-old granddaughter was present in the house, adding to the family's distress. According to police reports, the miscreants did not harm anyone during their nearly 30-minute stay, but the psychological trauma inflicted on the family is immense.
Modus Operandi of the Robbers
Investigations have revealed that the robbery unfolded around 2 pm when a man dressed in a khaki police uniform knocked on the door. Hombalegowda opened the door, and the man introduced himself as a police sub-inspector from Yelahanka station, carrying a diary to appear legitimate. Before Hombalegowda could react, a second man, also clad in khaki uniform, entered the premises. Suddenly, both individuals pulled out knives and threatened Hombalegowda, escalating the situation rapidly.
As Mangalamma came to the hall upon hearing the commotion, the robbers held her at knifepoint as well. They proceeded to wrap the couple's mouths with cellophane tape and gag their hands with cloth, immobilizing them. Notably, the miscreants did not touch the child, who was in another room during the ordeal, showing a calculated restraint amidst their criminal actions.
Theft and Escape
The robbers then ransacked the cupboards in the bedrooms, systematically looting the cash and gold. Before making their escape, they grabbed the mobile phones of the couple and the CCTV DVR, likely to destroy evidence and hinder police investigations. An investigating officer stated that the criminals were methodical in their approach, ensuring they left no trace behind.
In a poignant moment during the robbery, when the miscreants threatened the couple with a knife, Mangalamma offered her mangalsutra in a desperate attempt to appease them. However, both robbers refused to take it, indicating they were focused solely on high-value items like cash and gold.
Police Investigation and Community Impact
Authorities are actively investigating the case, with officers from local stations combing through evidence and interviewing witnesses. The use of police uniforms in the crime has raised concerns about public safety and trust in law enforcement. This incident highlights the audacity of criminals in urban areas like Bengaluru, where such impersonations can lead to severe breaches of security.
The robbery has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting residents to be more vigilant and question unfamiliar individuals claiming to be officials. Police have urged citizens to verify identities before allowing strangers into their homes, especially those in uniform, to prevent similar occurrences.
As the investigation continues, the family is left to cope with the loss and trauma, while authorities work to apprehend the culprits and recover the stolen assets. This case serves as a stark reminder of the evolving tactics used by criminals in metropolitan cities.
