Patrol police catch ATM thief red-handed in Ballari

BALLARI: A thief was caught red-handed by the city’s patrol police when he was stealing money from an ATM in the wee hours of Tuesday near Kalamma Circle. The thrilling scene of the police officer apprehending the thief was captured on a CCTV camera.

The accused, identified as Venkatesh from Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh, was caught by ASI Mallikarjun while he was attempting to steal money from an Axis Bank ATM. The presence of mind of the ASI led to the the thief being subdued after a brief struggle.

According to reports, the police had received a tip-off about the theft and lay in wait for the accused. When Venkatesh was caught carrying the ATM box, he attempted to attack ASI Mallikarjun, but the officer managed to restrain him with the help of constable Ningappa.

The Ballari police were praised for their swift action, and Superintendent of Police Dr Shobha Rani honoured ASI Mallikarjun and the constable for their bravery.