Three youths attempted to rob the Rupali Bank’s Jinzira branch in South Keraniganj, Dhaka, on Thursday afternoon, allegedly to cover medical expenses for a critically ill patient. The incident, as detailed by Dhaka District Superintendent of Police (SP) Ahmad Muyeed during a press briefing at Keraniganj Model Police Station later in the evening, appears to have been influenced by film portrayals of daring adventures.

According to SP Muyeed, the three suspects claimed they needed money urgently to save a kidney patient in critical condition. However, police are currently verifying the information provided, including the identity and condition of the purported patient. "They might not be hardened criminals but misguided individuals," Muyeed remarked.

The dramatic incident unfolded around 2 PM when the youths entered the bank with apparent intent to commit robbery. As news of the heist spread through the area, announcements were made from a nearby mosque, prompting hundreds of locals to surround the bank. Law enforcement agencies, including the police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and the army, arrived shortly after to handle the situation.

SP Muyeed noted that from the outset, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) provided live directives, emphasizing a peaceful resolution without casualties. Following hours of negotiation, the suspects were convinced to surrender around 5:30 PM. As part of the de-escalation, the robbers even spoke directly with the IGP during the negotiations.

The suspects’ claim about their motivations and their connection to the alleged patient has led the police to exercise caution in categorizing them as criminals. "The situation seemed to be a product of desperation and misinformation," said the SP.

The case has drawn widespread attention, with local residents praising law enforcement for their handling of the situation without any bloodshed. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the authenticity of the suspects’ claims and their motivations for attempting the heist.