Thrissur ATM Heist Shocks Kerala: Professional Gang Steals ₹70 Lakhs with Gas Cutters While Authorities Race Against Time

A brazen ATM heist unfolded in Thrissur, Kerala, where a gang of four masked individuals made off with approximately ₹70 lakhs from three Indian State Bank ATMs using gas cutters. The robbery, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, has raised suspicions of involvement by a professional criminal gang. With swift action from local authorities, a police encounter ensued, resulting in one suspect's death and another being injured. The police are intensifying their efforts to apprehend the remaining members of the gang.

Details of the Heist:

The audacious robbery took place between 2:30 AM and 4:00 AM, targeting ATMs located near Swaraj Round, Mpranam, Kolazhi, and Shornur Road. The thieves used gas cutters to breach the machines, successfully stealing a significant amount before fleeing the scene in a white car.

Immediate Police Response:

In response to the theft, local police acted quickly, with Thrissur District Police Chief Elango R inspecting the crime scene. They promptly alerted neighboring districts of Palakkad, Coimbatore, Krishnagiri, and Salem due to recent similar incidents, indicating that this might be part of a larger pattern.

Police Encounter:

As Tamil Nadu police pursued a container truck suspected to be connected to the gang, a tense situation unfolded. After the driver refused to stop, additional forces were deployed. During the encounter, one suspect attempted to flee and was shot, leading to the capture of several others.

CCTV Footage Evidence:

Surveillance footage shows the four masked individuals arriving in a white vehicle. The gang cleverly obscured ATM cameras with spray paint during the heist, complicating efforts to gather visual evidence for their identification.

Enhanced Security Measures:

Following the robbery, the police have heightened security at district borders and toll plazas, particularly in areas like Paliekara. All officers have been instructed to remain vigilant, given the possibility of the gang attempting to strike again.

Ongoing Investigation:

Authorities are conducting thorough interrogations of the detained suspects to determine if they are indeed part of the same group responsible for the ATM heists in Thrissur and surrounding areas. Investigators are keen to uncover connections to previous incidents.

Public Alert:

Residents are urged to remain cautious and report any suspicious activities. The police are working diligently to ensure public safety and restore confidence in the security of financial institutions in the region.