Police have arrested an assistant manager and a security officer attached to a state-owned bank branch in Horana in connection with the robbery of Rs. 30.5 million that was being transported for ATM cash replenishment.
The incident occurred on June 3 at approximately 2:55 p.m., when a bank employee was carrying two bags containing cash through the rear entrance of the bank premises. According to investigators, an individual suddenly approached the employee, forcibly grabbed the cash bags and fled the scene.
Authorities stated that the stolen money amounted to Rs. 30.5 million, which had been prepared for deposit into the bank’s automated teller machines (ATMs).
Following the robbery, police launched a comprehensive investigation involving the examination of security procedures, surveillance footage, staff movements and the handling of cash transportation operations within the bank.
As the investigation progressed, officers identified potential links between the incident and individuals employed at the branch. Based on evidence gathered during the inquiry, the bank’s assistant manager and a security officer were taken into custody for questioning.
Investigators are now focusing on determining the extent of their alleged involvement and whether the robbery was planned with the assistance of insiders who may have had prior knowledge of the cash transfer.
The case has raised concerns regarding internal security measures and cash-handling procedures at financial institutions, particularly when large sums of money are transported within or between banking facilities.
Financial security experts note that robberies involving substantial amounts of cash often prompt reviews of operational protocols, staff oversight mechanisms and risk management procedures to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen safeguards.
Police have not ruled out the possibility of additional suspects being involved and are continuing investigations to establish whether others assisted in planning or executing the crime.
The suspects are expected to be produced before court as investigations continue.
