Chikkamagaluru: Expert burglars managed to gain entry into Manappuram Gold and Finance outlet through a hole in the wall which they managed to create on their own. They drilled the terrace of the building and cut all the iron rods using gas cutters in the process. Finally they decamped with 14 kgs of gold and Rs 8.16 lakh cash in the wee hours on September 24.

The burglars managed to break open the safe locker where all the cash and valuables were kept using gas cutters. After breaking into the safe, they got whatever they could and walked away with gold and cash. In a hurry, they left behind silver coins which were seen scattered all around the place.

The incident shook the entire city of Chikkamagaluru as their customers started lining up soon after receiving the news of burglary and were keen on the developments of the heist, especially about their missing cash and gold.

Mannapuram Gold and Finance branch officials were seen convincing them to bear with them for two days. Mannapuram outlet has 783 customers in total at their branch near Mallandur circle in the city.

City station police rushed to the spot and launched a massive manhunt to nab the culprits. It is learnt that, a team of 4 to 5 expert burglars might be involved in the burglary.

Further investigation is in progress as customers await the outcome of investigations.