Bank Security Gets a Major Boost as Lalbazar Tightens Citywide Vigil

The Kolkata Police has taken a major step to strengthen security at banks and financial institutions across the city. Lalbazar issued a new guideline on Thursday, putting local police stations in charge of regular security checks and patrols around banks.
Earlier, the Anti-Dacoity Section of the Lalbazar Detective Department was mainly responsible for bank security patrols. Under the new system, local police stations will now take over this responsibility.
What will local police do?
Police officers will regularly visit banks and check their overall security. Police patrols will be carried out during banking hours as well as when banks open and close each day.
Officers will also check whether CCTV cameras, emergency alarm systems and security guards are working properly.
Police will keep a close watch on suspicious people and vehicles around bank premises.
Local police will stay in regular contact with bank officials and security staff. If they receive any information about a possible robbery or theft, they must immediately inform senior officers.
During festivals or when there is information about large cash transactions, additional police personnel will be deployed around banks.
New Role for the Anti-Dacoity Section
Although local police stations will now handle regular patrols, the Anti-Dacoity Section will continue to play an important role.
The unit will focus on gathering and analysing intelligence about bank robberies and major crimes. It will also identify criminal gangs and share information about known offenders and their activities with local police stations.
Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) and Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCs) will monitor whether the new security system is being properly implemented.
Lalbazar said the new guidelines have come into effect immediately and all police stations in Kolkata have been instructed to follow them strictly.