Security Guard Arrested Over Bank Booth Theft

Police have arrested a security guard in connection with the theft of Tk 1.7 million from an ATM and cash collection booth operated by Islami Bank Bangladesh in Sitakunda, Chattogram. The suspect, identified as 56-year-old Md Ayub Ali, a resident of Cox’s Bazar, was apprehended during an operation in Rangpur after investigators tracked his whereabouts using information technology.

According to police, Tk 1,484,828 of the stolen money has been recovered from the accused. Following his arrest, he was produced before a court as legal proceedings commenced.

The theft took place on 24 June at an Islami Bank ATM and collection booth located on the campus of the International Islamic University Chittagong (IIUC) in the Sonachhari area of Sitakunda. Investigators said that security personnel had temporarily closed the booth around midday to go for lunch. When officials later counted the cash in the afternoon, they discovered that 17 bundles of Tk 1,000 notes, amounting to Tk 1.7 million, were missing.

An examination of the booth’s CCTV footage played a crucial role in the investigation. Police said the recordings showed Ayub Ali allegedly using a duplicate key to unlock the booth before removing the cash. The footage prompted bank authorities to file a case with Sitakunda Model Police Station.

The investigation then shifted to identifying the suspect’s location. Using digital forensic methods and information technology, officers traced Ayub Ali to Rangpur, where he had reportedly gone into hiding after the theft. A police team conducted an operation and arrested him without incident.

Officer-in-Charge Md Mohinul Islam of Sitakunda Model Police Station said the swift use of technology enabled investigators to identify and apprehend the suspect within a short period. He confirmed that Tk 1,484,828 had been recovered and that the accused had been handed over to the court.

The case highlights the importance of internal security measures at financial service facilities, particularly those handling large volumes of cash. CCTV surveillance and prompt reporting by the bank were instrumental in advancing the investigation and recovering most of the stolen money. Police have not disclosed whether efforts are continuing to recover the remaining amount or whether they are investigating the possible involvement of any additional individuals.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.