UPDATED: NIS heist took place hours after staff collected millions

By Leroy Smith

The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the robbery of the National Insurance Scheme (N.I.S) office at Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara at approximately 02:30hrs on Thursday.

According to a source, bandits who stormed the establishment carted off with just over $6M.

The News Room learnt that of interest to the police, is the fact that only yesterday (Wednesday, January 11, 2017), the office received a large sum of money for payment to pensioners. The sum in addition to what is usually kept at the office was stolen.

During a visit to the scene on Thursday, it was evident that the bandits entered the premises through a hole they cut in the chain link fence surrounding the building. It was also observed that they had enough time to disconnect the alarm system, pry open doors, cut padlocks and even more time to torch a safe and tie up two security guards.

Speaking to the News Room, the staff explained that this is their scheduled week to receive payments and contributions from employers as well as paying those persons who are entitled to pensions from the National Insurance Scheme.