Burglary at IOB bank in Chennai, safety lockers broken open

In a bank burglary, safety lockers at a nationalised bank's branch here were found broken open today and valuables stolen, police said.

The theft at Indian Overseas Bank's Virugambakkam branch here was noticed when officials opened it for business this morning. The branch manager later lodged a police complaint.

As the incident triggered concerns among its customers, the bank said it would work towards safeguarding the assets of the customers.

An iron door to the room housing safety lockers was found drilled to gain access to the lockers, city police Commissioner A K Viswanathan said after visiting the spot.

The door was drilled to accommodate the entry of a single person, through which the suspect had got in, the city police chief said.

"Only one or two lockers were found open and other lockers are not affected... The extent of loss would be known only after a complete enquiry," he said.

The Commissioner said they have got a clue and would apprehend the culprit soon.

A police official monitoring the investigation said the theft was suspected to have been committed either on Saturday or Sunday.

IOB, in a statement, said "we wish to state that the incident is being investigated and we are extending our full support to the police authorities."

It said banking services at the branch would be restored within 24 hours.

"IOB has zero tolerance policy and will work towards safeguarding the assets of its customers," the bank added.