Mystery illness strikes IFIC Bank staff in Kuliarchar, Police suspect toxic gas exposure

A strange incident unfolded at the IFIC Bank sub-branch in Kuliarchar on Sunday afternoon when all six staff members suddenly lost consciousness. The cause is suspected to be exposure to a toxic gas.

Al Amin Mia, a customer who had briefly stepped out before the incident, returned around 12:45 PM to find the bank staff unconscious, some vomiting on the floor. No customers were among the affected, according to local media.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Nazmus Sakib, who is leading the investigation, confirmed the presence of a strong chemical odour inside the bank. Although the vault and cash were intact, he said a toxic substance might have caused the illness.

The unconscious staff were taken to Jahurul Islam Medical College Hospital, with two initially treated at the local health complex.

Bank operations have been suspended, and police are reviewing CCTV footage. Officials suspect a failed robbery attempt involving chemical sedation, but the motive remains unclear.