Businessman Robbed of Rs 10 Lakh at Gunpoint on Odisha Bridge: Police Launch Investigation

The victim reported that the robbery took place at approximately 9:30 pm.

Koraput:

A businessman in Odisha's Koraput district was robbed of Rs 10 lakh by a group of unidentified criminals on a bridge. Police confirmed the incident occurred on Monday along the Kotpad-Kundura road.

Police sources revealed that the businessman was returning home after completing business transactions when criminals intercepted his vehicle. The perpetrators, armed with dangerous weapons, threatened both the businessman and his driver before forcibly seizing a bag containing Rs 10 lakh in cash.

According to the victim's statement, the incident transpired around 9:30 am when his car reduced speed near the bridge. The road was suddenly blocked by two motorcycles and a four-wheeler. Masked criminals surrounded the vehicle and threatened him at weapon-point, demanding money. Fearing for his safety, the businessman surrendered the cash without resistance.

Following the robbery, the perpetrators escaped toward the forested area between Kotpad and Kundura. The businessman immediately alerted Kotpad Police, who arrived promptly at the scene to begin their investigation. A scientific team has gathered fingerprints and collected CCTV footage from surrounding areas.

Koraput Police has assigned a special team to track down the criminals and has assured that firm action will be taken against those responsible. Checkpoints have been established along major district exit routes.

Investigators suspect the gang had prior knowledge about the businessman's cash movement, suggesting a carefully planned operation.

Local community members expressed concern regarding the bold robbery and requested increased patrolling along the Kotpad-Kundura route, which has experienced several similar incidents during late hours recently.

Police confirmed that investigation into the case continues.

(With inputs from Dev Kumar Ghosh)