Armed Gang Steals ₹80 Lakh in Bold Kochi Corporate Robbery

A significant robbery unfolded in Kochi on March 15, 2024, when a five-member gang stormed the corporate office of the National Steel Sales Centre, stealing ₹80 lakh at gunpoint. The assailants, who were masked and armed, threatened employees inside the establishment, which specializes in steel wholesale distribution.

According to local authorities, the Maradu Police have arrested one suspect, identified as Saji, a resident of Vaduthala. He is currently under interrogation, led by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) officials, as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident. The police suspect that the robbery was linked to a money-doubling scheme that had previously entangled Subin, the owner of the steel sales centre.

The robbery was meticulously planned. Reports indicate that two members of the gang first arrived on a motorcycle at approximately 15:30 to conduct surveillance. Shortly thereafter, five armed individuals arrived in a car, parked adjacent to the office, and entered the building. At the time, employees were counting money on a table, which made them vulnerable to the armed robbers.

During the incident, the gang brandished a machete and a firearm, intimidating the employees to hand over the cash. The robbers then fled the scene in the vehicle they arrived in. Notably, the corporate office lacked internal CCTV surveillance, which has complicated the investigation. However, police are reviewing external CCTV footage from nearby establishments to identify the suspects.

Employees reported that the stolen funds were intended for purchasing stock, a critical component of the company’s operations. The police have gathered information about the getaway vehicle and are actively pursuing leads to apprehend the remaining members of the gang.

The audacious nature of this robbery, occurring in broad daylight, has raised concerns about security in the area. Local residents and business owners are now questioning their safety as police continue to investigate this alarming incident.