By BK Singh
A shocking daylight robbery has left the residents of Peepal Gaon in Prayagraj district in a state of fear and anxiety. The brazen crime, which took place in broad daylight, has sparked widespread concern about safety in the area.
According to reports, two armed men forcibly entered the residence of Vishal Kumar, the head cashier of a local bank, and looted cash and jewellery at gunpoint. At the time of the robbery, Kumar was away visiting a relative, leaving his wife, Priya, alone at home. The criminals took advantage of the situation, threatening Priya with dire consequences if she attempted to raise an alarm.
The robbers, seemingly well-prepared, also removed the CCTV camera and the digital video recorder (DVR) installed in the house. This calculated move was aimed at eliminating any potential evidence that could aid the police in identifying them.
How the Incident Unfolded
Vishal Kumar is employed as the head cashier at the Meerapur branch of a bank. On Saturday, he left home to visit a relative, leaving his wife alone in their residence. Seizing this opportunity, the two robbers arrived at the house and knocked on the door.
When Priya answered, they deceitfully claimed that Vishal had sent them to collect the locker keys. However, Priya informed them that her husband was not at home. Seemingly undeterred, the criminals then requested a glass of water, pretending to be ordinary visitors.
Unaware of their sinister intentions, Priya turned her back to fetch water from the kitchen. The moment she stepped away, the robbers swiftly entered the house, locked the door behind them, and brandished a pistol at her. Holding her at gunpoint, they threatened to kill her if she did not comply with their demands. Fear-stricken and unable to resist, Priya handed over the keys to the almirah.
Without wasting time, the criminals rummaged through the locker and looted Rs. 7,000 in cash, along with all of Priya’s jewellery, which was estimated to be worth several lakhs. Before making their escape, they carefully dismantled the CCTV camera and took away the DVR, ensuring that there was no recorded footage of their crime.
Aftermath and Police Investigation
As soon as the robbers left, Priya, still shaken and terrified, immediately called her husband to inform him of the incident. Vishal Kumar rushed back home upon receiving the distressing news. Meanwhile, the local police from the Airport Police Station were also alerted and reached the scene promptly.
Upon arrival, the police recorded Priya’s statement and began their preliminary investigation. Despite the shocking nature of the crime, the neighbours could not provide much information, as the entire robbery was carried out silently and swiftly. Since no sounds of struggle or alarms were raised, none of the neighbours were aware of what was happening right next door.
The in-charge of Airport Police Station, Arun Kumar, stated that the robbers appeared to have left no trace behind. However, a formal case has been registered against two unidentified individuals, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are looking into all possible leads, and efforts are being made to identify the culprits and bring them to justice.
Fear and Insecurity Among Residents
The daring nature of the crime has sent shockwaves throughout Peepal Gaon. Many residents are now feeling unsafe, even within the confines of their homes. The lack of any immediate clue regarding the robbers’ identity has added to the growing concerns among the people in the area.
Netizens and locals have taken to social media platforms to express their fear and demand stronger security measures. Many believe that such incidents highlight the urgent need for better law enforcement and stricter vigilance in residential areas.
While the police continue their investigation, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the increasing crime rates and the need for enhanced security precautions to ensure the safety of residents in Prayagraj and beyond.
