Greater Noida: Allegations of a financial fraud involving around ₹35 crore have surfaced at a Punjab National Bank (PNB) branch in Sector Pi-1, near Aichhar village in Greater Noida. Several account holders have alleged that large amounts were withdrawn from their accounts without their knowledge or consent. Customers have further alleged that their fixed deposits were prematurely closed and the money was transferred through RTGS to other accounts without authorisation.
Account holders raise alarm over missing funds
According to the complaints submitted by the affected customers, the alleged unauthorised transactions involved substantial amounts. Some account holders have claimed that ₹10 lakh, ₹22 lakh, ₹88 lakh and even around ₹1 crore were withdrawn from individual accounts. Customers have also alleged that incorrect entries were made in their passbooks, raising concerns over whether the alleged transactions were being concealed.
Customers stage protest outside bank
The allegations led to a protest at the PNB branch on Tuesday, where dozens of affected account holders and local residents gathered. The protesters raised slogans against the bank management and employees and displayed placards demanding action. They called for the identification of those responsible and sought the return of their money. Residents from Birondi Chakrasenpur, Aichhar and Site-4 are among those who have reportedly approached the authorities over the matter.
FIR registered, investigation underway
Following complaints from the affected customers, including Shrichand, a resident of Birondi Chakrasenpur and son of Khachedoo Singh, an FIR has reportedly been registered. Inspector Vijay Kumar Gupta has been appointed as the investigating officer. The police are examining the alleged transactions, bank statements, RTGS records, FD-related documents and other evidence to establish how the money was transferred and who was responsible.
Bank’s internal controls under scrutiny
The allegations have also raised questions over the internal monitoring and security mechanisms at the bank branch. Customers have alleged that such large transactions and premature FD closures could not have taken place without access to banking records and systems. However, the allegations are yet to be established through investigation. Police and bank authorities are examining the records, and further details are expected to emerge as the probe progresses.