Manappuram gold loan office loot: 4 special teams formed, Sambalpur police launches extensive search

Sambalpur Police on Saturday ramped up the search operation and formed four specialised teams in the wake of a daring heist at the Manappuram gold loan office. Although extensive searches are being conducted across state borders, no arrests have been made yet.

The daring robbery saw thieves abscond with approximately 28 kilograms and 200 grams of gold jewellery alongside Rs 4.8 lakh in cash. The investigation teams are not just limiting their efforts to Sambalpur alone; the investigation is also on in neighbouring districts, though a significant lead continues to elude them.

Meanwhile, the Manappuram gold loan office employees recounted the harrowing ordeal where they were held at gunpoint, tied and held captive by the robbers during their getaway with the valuables. The incident occurred on Jan 3, 2025, within the Manappuram Gold Loan office in the Budharaja area.

Also Read: 10 armed robbers storm into Manappuram Gold Loan office in Sambalpur, decamp with jewellery worth crores

A witness, who is an employee of the office, recounted that between six to seven armed robbers stormed the premises, thrashed everyone and held them at gunpoint. The robbers forced the staff members to comply by intimidation and physical restraint before making off with the valuables.

“As usual we were working in the office when the armed miscreants stormed into the office and began beating up before we could understand anything. They were all well-equipped with pistols and sharp-edged weapons. They tied us all and took off with the gold jewellery weighing around 28 kilos and 200 grams. They have also taken away Rs 4.8L cash,” the employee recounted.

Meanwhile, the dramatic escape of the robbers was captured by CCTV cameras. Investigators are currently scrutinising this footage in hopes of identifying the perpetrators and tracing their whereabouts.