Armed robbers involved in Karnataka’s Bidar ATM heist, flee to Hyderabad, fire at cops, gang yet to be caught

A gang from Karnataka’s Bidar, engaged in a dramatic shootout with police in Hyderabad’s bustling Afzalgunj area, causing panic among locals. The gang, responsible for Rs 93 lakh ATM heist in Bidar, fled to Hyderabad after their robbery, prompting a coordinated chase by the Bidar and Hyderabad police.

According to East Zone DCP Bala Swamy, the gang had executed the robbery at an automated teller machine (ATM) near the SBI Bank in Bidar using a brutal strategy. They threw chili powder at bank staff and fired six rounds, killing one employee, Giri Venkatesh, and critically injuring another, Shiva Kashinath. The gang escaped with cash meant for ATM refills, sparking a massive manhunt.

The breakthrough came when one of the suspects attempted to book a bus ticket to Raipur under the alias “Amit Kumar.” Unknowingly, Bidar police officers, traveling on the same bus for an unrelated case, identified the suspect. When they attempted an arrest, the gang opened fire and escaped, carrying the stolen money and weapons.

Hyderabad police have since intensified their efforts, setting up special checkpoints and deploying four dedicated teams to apprehend the suspects. “The accused are armed and dangerous. We are prioritizing public safety while tracking their movements,” DCP Swamy said.

The audacious crime and ensuing shootout have heightened vigilance in both Bidar and Hyderabad, with authorities urging residents to report any suspicious activity. Investigations are ongoing, and police are reviewing CCTV footage from the crime scene and surrounding areas for additional leads.

G Parmeshwara, Karnataka Home Minister reviewing the robbery in Bidar, said, “The police have identified two accused and are following up on all of them. They went to Hyderabad and, from there, tried to board a bus. Perhaps in one or two days, they will be secured. They have been identified.”