'Money Heist' style robbery attempt creates panic as masked men enter society in Pune

A chilling robbery attempt straight out of a crime thriller gripped the Sidra Garden Cooperative Housing Society in Pune’s Dhanori area, as masked intruders armed with koytas (sickles) stormed the premises in the early hours of April 8. Dressed in black and moving stealthily, the attackers triggered fear among residents, evoking eerie parallels with the internationally acclaimed web series Money Heist.

The incident occurred between 4 and 5 AM, when three unidentified men managed to breach the society’s security and roamed around the building. According to residents, the assailants attempted to break into one of the flats, creating widespread panic. CCTV footage from the building clearly captured their suspicious movements and has been submitted to authorities for further investigation.

What alarmed residents even more was the gang’s get-up — completely masked, in black outfits, and carrying deadly koytas. The dramatic visuals and sudden appearance of these intruders bore striking similarities to the Money Heist gang’s signature style, adding to the fear factor and social media buzz.

Residents of the society wasted no time in filing a formal complaint with Vishrantwadi Police Station and also alerted the Pune Police Commissioner. The complaint noted the timing of the intrusion and the dangerous weapons carried by the masked men. Police are now reviewing CCTV evidence and have launched a search operation to identify and arrest the culprits.

This attempt comes amid rising fears of the notorious "Koyta Gang" that has already kept several Pune neighborhoods on edge. The group’s alleged tactics of intimidation, violence, and now planned robbery attempts have residents demanding stronger security measures across housing societies.

As investigations continue, the incident has reignited concerns about the growing boldness of criminal groups in urban areas. Citizens are calling for improved surveillance, stricter night patrols, and faster response times from the police to ensure such incidents do not escalate into tragedies.