The post-festive week in Sonipat has been marred by a surge in targeted robberies, with the latest victim being a liquor outlet located on the outskirts of the city. The robbery took place around 11:45 PM, just as the city was settling down after the Bhai Dooj celebrations.
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The Heist: According to the victim’s statement, three men arrived on a motorcycle without a license plate. While one stayed outside to monitor the road, two others entered the vend. They threatened the salesman with a country-made pistol (katta) and a sharp-edged weapon, demanding the keys to the cash chest.
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Targeted Timing: The timing of the robbery—immediately following the peak sales of Diwali and Bhai Dooj—suggests the criminals were aware that the vend would be holding a significant amount of cash before the morning bank deposit.
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Police Investigation: A team from the Sector 27 Police Station and the CIA (Crime Investigation Agency) visited the spot this morning. Forensic experts have collected fingerprints from the counter. Preliminary reports suggest the gang may be linked to a similar “bike-borne trio” involved in a petrol pump robbery in neighboring Panipat earlier this week.
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Security Concerns: The incident has sparked fear among local shopkeepers. “Many vends in the outer sectors lack adequate security guards. We are now advising all high-cash businesses to ensure their digital surveillance is active 24/7 and to avoid late-night cash counting,” said a senior police official.
Community Sentiment
“We heard a bike revving loudly and then saw the salesman running out for help. It’s scary because the police patrolling usually increases during festivals, but the criminals seem to wait for the exact moment the vigil drops,” said a nearby tea-stall owner.
