What began as a routine banking day in Meharma, Godda, transformed into a scene from an action thriller when robbers made a bold attempt to loot the Bank of India branch. The failed heist ended with one security guard fighting for his life after being shot at point-blank range.
The attackers, numbering at least three, chose broad daylight for maximum shock value. They entered wearing helmets and masks, immediately overpowering customers while heading straight for the cash counter. But the security guard’s quick reflexes changed the outcome.
Drawing his service weapon, the guard engaged the criminals in sustained fire exchange. The robbers retaliated, hitting him before scrambling away in panic. Miraculously, no customers or bank staff suffered injuries during the 90-second ordeal.
Rapid response from local law enforcement prevented further escalation. The crime scene yielded crucial evidence including spent cartridges and a discarded weapon magazine. The wounded guard’s transfer to Sadar Hospital marked the beginning of his recovery journey.
Regional police chief revealed that intelligence suggests involvement of an interstate robbery ring. Meantime, the bank announced temporary closure for security audit. This near-tragedy serves as a grim reminder of persistent threats facing India’s rural banking sector, demanding urgent systemic reforms.