Customers lock the Sylhet National Bank branch after failing to withdraw money

Customers blocked the main entrance of National Bank’s Shibganj branch in Sylhet today (October 30) after they were unable to withdraw their desired amount.

More than 50 frustrated account holders gathered outside the branch at lunchtime demanding access to their money.

The protesters alleged that they faced harassment for several days while trying to withdraw money from the Shibganj branch.

They claimed that when they presented checks of various amounts, they were given only Tk 5,000-Tk 10,000. When asked about the reason, they were told that the bank was facing a cash crunch.

Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Shahparan Police Station, Mr. Manir Hossain, told The Business Standard that after receiving the news of the protest, they went to the spot and brought the situation under control.

“The bank’s doors were opened after we convinced the customers. I spoke with the general manager of the bank, who assured that the funds will be sent,” added OC.

Sabbir Hanan, senior assistant vice-president and manager of the bank’s Shibganj branch, said: “It was not possible to give customers the amount of money they requested.”

He explained that due to various rumours, customers were only coming to withdraw money and not depositing any. “This has led to a severe shortage of cash in the bank’s branches.”

Earlier on Monday (October 28), several customers shut down another branch of the National Bank in Golapganj in Sylhet due to the same issue. At that time, they blocked the Sylhet-Zakiganj road and staged a protest.