Jewellery trader looted at gunpoint in Balasore’s Nilagiri, probe underway

A major robbery was reported in Nilagiri area of Odisha’s Balasore district late on Wednesday night, where gold ornaments worth lakhs of rupees were allegedly looted at gunpoint from a jewellery trader.

The incident took place near Santaragadia’s Kuligadi village under Nilagiri police station limits. The victim, Kripasindhu Rana of Kuligadi village, was reportedly intercepted by miscreants while returning home after closing his jewellery shop.

According to Rana, the accused pointed a gun at his head and fled with a bag containing gold ornaments.

Robbery on a Deserted Route

As per the complaint, the robbery occurred between 9:15 pm and 9:20 pm on a relatively deserted stretch of road, which made it easier for the miscreants to execute the crime and escape.

Rana stated that four unidentified individuals riding two motorcycles blocked his path. When he attempted to pass from the other side, one of them allegedly aimed a firearm at him, snatched his scooter keys and decamped with the jewellery bag.

Sources said the businessman usually returns home with his son. However, on the day of the incident, he was alone.

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The trader further mentioned that he was extremely frightened during the episode and could not confirm whether the firearm was discharged.

The exact value of the looted ornaments is yet to be officially confirmed, though it is estimated to be worth several lakhs of rupees.

Police Probe Underway

Following the incident, a complaint was lodged at Nilagiri police station, after which an investigation was launched.

Police are examining all possible angles, including whether the robbery was pre-planned or carried out opportunistically. Efforts are underway to identify and trace the accused persons.

Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.