Three individuals who attempted to rob the Jinjira branch of Rupali Bank in the Chunkutia Pakapol area of South Keraniganj, Dhaka, surrendered on Thursday afternoon (Dec 19). 

Joint forces also rescued all hostages trapped inside the bank, ensuring their safety without any harm.

After holding bank officials and customers hostage for about three and a half hours, three robbers surrendered with weapons at around 5:30 pm.

Officer-in-Charge (OC) of South Keraniganj Police Station, Mazharul Islam, confirmed the matter to Banglanews.

He said that the robbers who surrendered to joint forces along with their weapons, were handed over to the Keraniganj Model Police Station.

Regarding the weapons, the OC said that the robbers possessed knives and other items. 

According to the eyewitnesses and locals, the incident began around 2 pm when the robbers entered the second floor of the Jinjira branch of Rupali Bank via the stairs. Businessmen and others on the ground floor quickly sensed suspicious activity and closed the collapsible gate at the only staircase leading to the bank, effectively trapping the robbers inside.

Upon receiving the information, law enforcement agencies, including the army, promptly surrounded the building. Inside, 10 to 12 staff members, including officials, were taken hostage by the robbers.

During the standoff, law enforcement officials engaged in negotiations with the robbers, who demanded a "safe exit" in exchange for releasing the hostages. 

The situation was resolved without casualties, as the robbers ultimately surrendered, the OC added.

BDST: 1820 HRS, DEC 19, 2024
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