The New Nation - Internet Edition

AN organised group of robbers last week took advantage of the loopholes in the security system of the Agrani Bank National Press Club branch and fled with more than Tk 12 lakh encashed to pay salary of staffs of the Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Department. The robbers spread banks notes to mislead the people present. In another case earlier, robbers broke into lockers of a bank and looted gold ornaments. In both the cases the robbers used newer techniques in commiting crimes. Use of small but sophisticated weapons and acids, chemicals and sedatives are some of the new tricks. The incidents suggest that the law enforcing agencies should have more preparedness to deal with the criminals.

Reports hint at serious slackness in security arrangements at the Agrani Bank branch. The branch did not have CCTV cameras, nor armed guards or even an effective security alarm system. It had only two security guards. The branch officers had sent one guard outside to bring tea. This was done at a time when maximum security preparedness was needed. The robbers may also have had collusive relationships with some members of the bank staff, security guards or people at the education office. Otherwise, there was no scope for the robbers to know the exact date and time and place of withdrawal of the cash money. Those involved in the long chain activities leading to the incident are potential suspects. The law enforcing agencies must conduct a thorough investigation to bring the culprits to book. The bank branch should tighten security arrangements to stop such robberies in broad day light.