Tension gripped the Joynagar Abala Chowmuhani area after cellotape was reportedly found pasted over the cash dispensing slot of an ATM, sparking fears of a possible fraud attempt.

The matter came to light when several customers encountered problems while trying to withdraw money. Sensing foul play, they raised an alarm and alerted people nearby, suspecting a deliberate attempt to cheat ATM users.

According to the customers, fraudsters often use such tactics by placing cellotape over the cash outlet so that the money, though dispensed, gets stuck inside the slot. The trapped cash can later be retrieved by the perpetrators, leaving customers unaware that the transaction was successful.

Following reports of the incident, bank officials and police personnel rushed to the spot. The ATM was inspected, the cellotape removed, and normal operations were restored. Police officials confirmed that an investigation has been launched to determine who was behind the act.

Authorities have advised ATM users to remain cautious and immediately report any suspicious activity or irregularities to the bank or the police. Local residents say the incident has once again raised concerns over the increasing number of ATM-related fraud cases in the area.