In a shocking case of financial fraud, two employees responsible for refilling ATMs under the Titilagarh SBI Main Branch in Balangir district have been accused of embezzling a staggering Rs15.9 lakh.
The fraud was uncovered during a routine audit, which revealed significant discrepancies in the cash records of the ATMs. The accused have been identified as Chakradhara Putel from Malisira village under Muribahal police station and Kandarpa Seth from Kachharpali village under Deogaon police station. Both men were employed by a private company to refill the ATMs.
Over time, the duo allegedly pocketed a portion of the cash meant for the ATMs while depositing smaller amounts instead. This fraudulent activity was brought to light during the bank’s audit, which revealed a shortfall of Rs15.9 lakh.
Following a complaint filed by the SBI branch manager, Debasish Joshi, an investigation was launched by the Muribahal police. Both suspects were promptly arrested, and the case has now been sent to court. Further investigations are being conducted to determine if others were involved in the scam.
When approached for comments, Debasish Joshi, the SBI branch manager, declined to speak, referring to the incident as an internal issue of the bank.
This case has raised concerns regarding the security measures in place for handling cash and the need for stricter monitoring and accountability in ATM operations to prevent such fraud in the future.
