Keonjhar, Jan 2: In a daring late-night armed robbery, eight masked men looted the house of businessman Sangram Kesari Nayak in Bayapandadhar village, Banspal. The robbers allegedly gained entry under the pretext of asking for water.

According to sources, the gang entered the house brandishing guns, held the family members at gunpoint, and forced them to hand over their mobile phones. They then locked everyone in a room and ransacked the house, including cupboards, bed boxes, and bags.

The robbers reportedly escaped with Rs6.8 lakh in cash and gold jewelry worth ₹11 lakh. Seven of the robbers wore masks, while one remained unmasked but also carried a firearm.

Police reached the scene immediately after the incident and have launched an investigation.