Greater Noida: Around ₹35 crore is suspected to be missing from savings accounts and fixed deposits at a Punjab National Bank (PNB) branch in Greater Noida, prompting a police investigation and an internal bank inquiry. Five employees, including the branch manager, have been suspended following complaints from customers.
The alleged fraud came to light at the bank’s Sector Pi-1 branch, where account holders reported unexplained reductions in their balances and premature closure of fixed deposits. The estimated amount was reported by PTI, citing customers, and has not been officially confirmed.
Several customers protested outside the branch on Wednesday, demanding answers and the recovery of their money. Members of a farmers’ union also staged a sit-in, while police personnel were deployed to maintain order.
According to PTI, account holder Vijendra Singh alleged that his balance had dropped from approximately ₹87–88 lakh to just ₹1 lakh. Another customer, Haneef Khan, claimed that ₹39 lakh had disappeared from his savings account without his authorisation. He also said he had received no transaction alerts or signed any documents permitting the transfers.
A third customer, Zakir, reported an alleged loss of ₹9.5 lakh. He said he discovered the discrepancy after visiting the bank, having received no text notification about the transactions.
Police in Greater Noida’s Beta-2 area have registered an FIR following a complaint by Birondi resident Shrichand. Eighteen customers have reportedly submitted written complaints. The case may be referred to the Economic Offences Wing for further investigation.
PNB has replaced the branch staff, suspended five employees and initiated an internal probe through its anti-corruption team. The bank has assured customers that their grievances will be addressed and recovery efforts undertaken.
The investigation will determine the total amount involved, the number of affected customers and responsibility for the alleged unauthorised transactions.
