Manager Nizam Uddin, from Sonali Bank`s Ruma branch in Bandarban, breathed a sigh of relief as he was rescued following a harrowing 37-hour abduction ordeal.
Commander Khandaker Al Moin, Director of Legal and Media Wing of RAB Headquarters, officially confirmed the successful rescue on Thursday evening.
The dramatic saga unfolded after an armed group, identified as the Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF), demanded a ransom of Tk 20 lakh for the safe return of the abducted bank official.
This incident stemmed from a brazen attack and robbery carried out by the KNF at the Sonali Bank branch in Bandarban`s Ruma on a fateful Tuesday night. The wave of criminal activity didn`t stop there, with subsequent robberies reported at both Sonali Bank and Bangladesh Krishi Bank branches in Thanchi the following Wednesday morning.
Afzal Karim, the managing director (MD) of Sonali Bank, provided insights into the events, stating that despite the assailants` attempts, they failed to breach the vault at the Ruma branch. However, the Thanchi branch wasn`t as fortunate, with cash amounting to eight lakh rupees looted.
In response to these troubling incidents, Karim assured the public of enhanced security measures, particularly with Eid holidays looming. He emphasized the importance of securing all branches during this period and outlined plans for activating alarm systems, ensuring CCTV cameras are operational, and implementing heightened security protocols, including officer patrols during closing hours.
The entire ordeal highlights the ongoing challenges faced by financial institutions in safeguarding their assets and personnel against organized criminal activities. The swift action taken by authorities underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in combating such threats and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
