Kathmandu- Police have uncovered significant developments in the Nepal SBI Bank robbery case, identifying the houseowner linked to the bank as the main planner of the robbery, while his brother-in-law played a key accomplice role in coordinating and facilitating the crime.
Based on statements given by the arrested robbers, police arrested Chhabilal Syangtan, the houseowner, who allegedly devised the overall plan for the robbery. Syangtan was arrested from Mahottari, police said.
According to investigators, Syangtan had travelled to Mahottari on the morning of the robbery, reportedly to apply for a driving licence. However, during preliminary interrogation, he admitted that he was planning to move to the Tarai region after the robbery, in line with the plan to distribute the looted money there. Police subsequently took him into custody for further investigation.
Police have also arrested Chaturman Bajyu, a local resident and brother-in-law of Syangtan, on charges of aiding and abetting the robbery. Investigators said Bajyu played a facilitative role by assisting the robbers and supporting the execution of the plan.
Initial statements from the arrested robbers indicate that the master plan to rob the bank was prepared by Syangtan, while Bajyu helped manage logistical and coordination aspects of the operation.
The robbery took place on the night of 29th of last month at the Nepal SBI Bank branch in Hayutar, Ghyanglekh Rural Municipality–2, Sindhuli, where robbers looted Rs 31 million.
Police have so far recovered approximately Rs 26.8 million, and efforts are ongoing to recover the remaining amount. The investigation is continuing, and police say further arrests are possible as more details emerge.
