Kathmandu — A major twist has emerged in the Nepal SBI Bank robbery case in Ghyanglekh Rural Municipality, Sindhuli, with police revealing that the owner of the house where the bank branch was operating is suspected to be the mastermind behind the incident.
According to police, statements given by the arrested suspects indicate that the robbery was carried out as per a plan devised by the House Owner. Based on these confessions, police have arrested Chhabilal Syangtang, the owner of the building housing the SBI Bank branch, from Mahottari.
Investigators said Syangtang had left home early on the day of the incident, claiming he was heading to take a driving licence test, which initially diverted suspicion. However, information provided by the arrested robbers led police to conclude that the robbery was executed according to his instructions.
Police have also identified Chaturman Bajiu, Syangtang’s brother-in-law, as a suspect. A police officer involved in the investigation stated that evidence and testimonies suggest his possible involvement as well, and further investigation is underway.
Six Arrested; Robbers Identified as Daily-Wage Workers
Police have so far arrested six individuals in connection with the robbery. Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspects are dyeing workers, originally from Nuwakot, Chitwan, and Makawanpur.
According to police, the group had met in Kathmandu and had been planning a bank robbery for some time. The reason for choosing the Sindhuli branch is still under investigation.
After committing the robbery, the suspects fled into a nearby forest. However, while attempting to buy noodles and energy drinks after becoming hungry, they were spotted by locals, apprehended, and handed over to the police.
More Looted Cash Recovered
Police have confirmed that three additional bags of cash looted from the bank were recovered on Tuesday evening. The bags were found along the route used by the robbers while fleeing.
Although the exact amount in the newly recovered bags has not yet been disclosed, police said earlier recoveries had already been made and the total looted amount is still being reconciled.
Robbery Planned in ‘Film-Style’ Manner
Investigators say the robbery appears to have been planned in a cinematic fashion, drawing comparisons to scenes from Nepali films. One of the arrested youths reportedly admitted to admiring a popular fictional robber character from Nepali cinema and attempting to imitate that style.
Police said the suspects had conducted multiple reconnaissance visits, planned entry and exit routes, restrained bank staff to delay police notification, and coordinated their escape in advance. Despite this, the plan ultimately failed due to human error and local vigilance.
Police have stated that the investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are possible as financial trails, communication records, and logistical support networks are examined.
