“Three claims amounting to ₹43 lakh had been settled as of yesterday. The Bank assures its customers that all genuine claims will be honoured,” PNB said in a statement. The bank reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards fraud and misconduct, adding that strict action would be taken against those found responsible in accordance with applicable rules.
Internal investigations have led to the suspension of 12 staff members linked to unauthorized fund transfers. Evidence indicates that transactions were executed using the branch manager’s password, with a female employee allegedly collaborating with external parties. PNB has filed a case with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered in Greater Noida.
There is a significant discrepancy between public reports and official estimates regarding the scale of the loss. While widespread online claims and initial reports cited a vanish of Rs 35 crore from savings accounts and fixed deposits, PNB stated that current estimates of the losses indicate they are below Rs 10 crore. The bank noted that it is extending full cooperation to authorities and is strengthening internal controls and monitoring mechanisms to prevent recurrence.
The incident, which involved suspicious messages and calls preceding the transfers, has prompted the bank to prioritize the verification of customer facts. PNB emphasized that it is taking necessary steps to address the concerns of affected customers while the investigation into the extent of the reported discrepancies continues.
The next steps involve the ongoing CBI investigation and the bank’s internal review of the remaining unverified claims. No specific deadline for the completion of the investigation or the final settlement of all claims has been announced.
