Four armed robbers looted around ₹50 lakh from a State Bank of India branch in Surat's Varachha area. The gang held bank staff hostage at gunpoint before fleeing with the cash. Police quickly reached the spot, sealed the area and launched a massive search operation. CCTV footage is being examined.

A major bank robbery took place in Surat, Gujarat, on Monday afternoon, sending shockwaves across the city. Four armed men entered the State Bank of India (SBI) branch in the Varachha area and escaped with around ₹50 lakh in cash. The daring robbery happened in broad daylight and was captured on CCTV cameras. The video has since gone viral on social media.

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Staff Held Hostage At Gunpoint

According to police, the four robbers entered the bank carrying weapons. They threatened the bank employees and took control of the branch within minutes. The staff members were held hostage at gunpoint and were unable to resist. The robbers then moved towards the cash counter and strong room, from where they took away nearly ₹50 lakh, according to a report by Bhaskar English. After collecting the cash, the gang quickly fled from the bank.

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Police Launch Massive Hunt

As soon as the robbery was reported, local police teams and senior officers rushed to the scene. The entire area around the bank was immediately sealed off.

Police have set up roadblocks at key points across Surat to stop the robbers from escaping the city. A city-wide search operation is now underway.

Investigators are closely examining CCTV footage from inside the bank as well as nearby shops and roads.

Viral Video, Sparks Strong Reactions

The CCTV footage of the robbery has spread rapidly online. Many social media users were shocked by the robbers' boldness.

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Several people pointed out that the robbers did not even cover their faces. Others compared the incident to scenes from crime dramas and films.

Some users questioned the security arrangements at the bank, while many praised the police for responding quickly.

Investigation Continues

Police are working to identify the four suspects and trace their escape route. Officials believe CCTV footage will play a key role in solving the case.

No injuries have been reported in the robbery. However, the incident has left bank employees and local residents deeply shaken.

Authorities have assured the public that every effort is being made to arrest the robbers as soon as possible.

The investigation is ongoing.