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Maharashtra Gramin Bank Branch Catches Fire After Suspected Robbery Attempt
A robbery attempt at Maharashtra Gramin Bank’s Vaijapur branch took a dangerous turn when a gas cylinder exploded during the break-in. The resulting fire destroyed the entire bank premises.
Author: Kalyani Mali
Published: April 21, 2025
In a shocking incident in the early hours of April 21, 2025, robbers targeted the Maharashtra Gramin Bank branch in Vaijapur city, Maharashtra. Armed with a gas cutter and cylinder, they attempted to breach the bank’s security. However, their plan led to an explosion that caused a devastating fire, drawing attention to the security preparedness at rural bank branches.
Explosion and Fire
The robbers brought a gas cylinder and cutter to access the bank’s cash vault. While trying to cut through, the cylinder exploded. The blast led to a fire that spread quickly and destroyed all physical assets inside.
Image: Fire breaks out at Maharashtra Gramin Bank during robbery attempt.
Courtesy: Mi Marathi
Police Response and Evidence
According to the video report, the Vaijapur Police Station, located nearby, was alerted by the explosion. Officers arrived at the scene promptly and observed two to three individuals fleeing the area. A Swift car was found outside the bank, containing tools such as grinders and gas cutters. Despite the police's quick response, the suspects managed to escape amid the chaos.
Image: A white Swift car found outside Maharashtra Gramin Bank during the fire.
Courtesy: Mi Marathi
Firefighting Efforts
As per the same report, local residents and police officers attempted to control the fire while awaiting municipal help. A municipal fire truck arrived about an hour later, and the situation was finally brought under control by 8 AM.
Bank's Statement
The report also includes a statement from D.M. Kaveri, General Manager of Maharashtra Gramin Bank, reassuring customers that although all furniture and paper documents were destroyed, no customer data would be compromised. The bank operates digitally, ensuring the safety of all customer information. Importantly, the strong room remained untouched by the robbers.
Investigation Progress
According to the report, around 8–9 individuals are suspected to have been involved in the attempted robbery. Within 24 hours of the incident, police reportedly detained approximately 4–5 suspects for questioning. The investigation is still underway, with authorities working to identify and apprehend the remaining individuals.
Similar Incidents of Gas Cutter Usage
This is not the first time such a method has been used in bank and ATM robberies. Similar incidents have occurred in various parts of India, such as in Thane and Nagpur, where robbers used gas cutters to break into ATMs, sometimes causing fires and explosions that destroyed cash and equipment. Such incidents highlight the increasing risk associated with this type of burglary, which puts both property and lives at risk.
The incident at Maharashtra Gramin Bank’s Vaijapur branch brings attention to rural bank security. No customer data was affected. The fire was controlled quickly. Some damage occurred. This points to the need for regular safety reviews. Improving both physical and digital security can help prevent future incidents.
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