Dramatic Daylight Robbery at Jewellery Store in Bihar’s Begusarai
A daring daylight robbery at a jewellery store in Patel Chowk, Begusarai, Bihar, has gained nationwide attention after dramatic CCTV footage of the incident went viral on social media. The footage captures the shocking moments when a group of armed robbers stormed into the store, leading to a chaotic gunfight between the assailants and the store owner, Pramod Poddar, who acted in self-defence.
During the exchange of gunfire, two of the robbers were injured along with a store employee, identified as Ajay. Both injured criminals were apprehended by the police and are currently undergoing medical treatment.
Robbery Details: Rs 40 Lakh Worth of Jewellery Stolen
According to Pramod Poddar, the owner of the targeted jewellery store, the robbers made off with jewellery worth approximately Rs 40 lakh. The incident occurred at a time when the store was bustling with customers preparing for the festive season.
The CCTV footage reveals how the criminals executed the heist. Several customers are seen turning towards the store’s entrance as the robbers barged in, brandishing firearms and intimidating everyone present. One of the robbers, armed with a pistol, rushed toward the glass display cases, grabbing the jewellery on exhibit. In a bold move, he leapt over the counter, ransacking a cupboard behind the counter for more valuables.
Just moments later, a gunfight erupted when Poddar, to protect his store and customers, opened fire on the robbers. The robbers retaliated, leading to a tense shootout that left both sides injured.
Owner Criticizes Lack of Security Measures Before Dhanteras
Following the incident, Pramod Poddar expressed his frustration with the local authorities, highlighting the failure to provide adequate security, especially ahead of the Dhanteras festival, a period known for increased foot traffic and heightened business activity at jewellery stores. In a statement reported by NDTV, Poddar said he had previously requested additional security from the local administration, but no preventive measures were taken.
“This is the busiest time for us, and I had requested police protection knowing the risk involved. However, no one responded to my appeals,” Poddar said, visibly frustrated. He added that only after the robbery and gunfight did a significant number of police officers arrive at the scene.
Poddar further detailed the incident, explaining: “The criminals opened fire first, injuring one of our employees, Ajay. In response, I fired at two of them, injuring them both. The police arrested the robbers and took them for medical treatment.”
Investigation Underway
Local police have confirmed that an investigation is in progress to uncover more details about the robbery and apprehend any accomplices who may have been involved. Authorities are reviewing the CCTV footage to identify other suspects and analyze how the group planned and executed the heist.
This brazen robbery has not only raised concerns about security during the festive season but has also reignited discussions about law enforcement’s preparedness to handle such incidents. While the prompt arrest of the injured robbers has been acknowledged, the store owner’s grievances over delayed police action and ignored security requests underscore the need for better preventive measures in high-risk areas.