Balasore, Dec 25: In a dramatic turn of events, miscreants set fire to the Odisha Gramya Bank in Balikhand Bazaar under Simulia police limits in Balasore station late last night allegedly after a failed loot bid.
As per reports, the miscreants gained access to the bank by cutting through the iron grill. Thereafter, they tried to open the lockers to steal cash and valuables but failed to do so. In a bid to cover their tracks or out of frustration, they set the lockers on fire and fled from the scene.
The situation came to light when locals noticed thick smoke billowing out of the bank premises early this morning and informed the bank officials. Later, they alerted the fire brigade and the police.
Upon getting the information, firefighters rushed to the spot and launched an operation to douse the flames.
Further investigation into the matter was underway.