A shocking armed robbery incident was reported from Hyderabad in the early hours of Saturday after a man was shot and robbed of Rs 6 lakh in cash outside an ATM, triggering panic in the area and prompting a large-scale police investigation.
The victim, identified as Rasheed, had reportedly visited a State Bank of India (SBI) ATM to deposit a substantial amount of money when he was suddenly confronted by a group of armed assailants. According to preliminary information, the attackers opened fire on him, forcibly snatched the cash and fled the scene within minutes.
Rasheed sustained a bullet injury to his leg during the attack. Local residents rushed to his aid after hearing the gunshot and immediately shifted him to a nearby hospital. Doctors treating him confirmed that he is currently out of danger and recovering, though he remains under medical observation.
Police Launch Intensive Probe
Soon after the incident, senior police officials, along with forensic and technical teams, reached the spot to secure the area and collect crucial evidence. Investigators have begun analysing CCTV footage from the ATM kiosk as well as nearby establishments to identify the attackers, their movement patterns and possible escape routes.
Initial inputs suggest that the robbers were well-prepared and armed, indicating a premeditated crime rather than a random act. Sources familiar with the probe said the assailants may have been tracking the victim or had prior information about the cash transaction.
The police have registered a case and launched a manhunt to trace the suspects. Checkpoints have been set up across key exit routes in the city, and surveillance has been intensified in surrounding areas.
Modus Operandi Raises Security Concerns
Investigators noted that the attackers were reportedly wearing black jackets, gloves and helmets, making identification difficult. They are believed to have arrived and escaped on a high-powered motorcycle, which allowed them to flee quickly before police could respond.
The incident has once again raised concerns about ATM security and cash handling risks, particularly when individuals carry large sums of money without adequate protection or escort.
Similar Incidents Add to Alarm
The Hyderabad ATM shooting comes just days after a brazen armed robbery at a jewellery shop in Vijayapura, Karnataka, where assailants used country-made pistols to threaten staff and customers before looting gold ornaments. In that incident too, shots were fired, injuring a local youth.
Police sources believe such crimes point towards an increasing trend of organised armed robberies, with criminals using firearms to intimidate victims and ensure swift escapes.
Public Advisory
Law enforcement agencies have urged citizens to exercise caution while carrying or depositing large amounts of cash and to seek assistance or use safer banking alternatives wherever possible. Authorities have also assured that security measures around ATMs and sensitive locations are being reviewed.
The investigation into the Hyderabad shooting and robbery is ongoing, and police say more details will emerge as suspects are identified and questioned.
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