NEW DELHI. Punjab National Bank (PNB) has reportedly suspended around 20 branch heads across the country following surprise inspections by senior officials and internal auditors. The inspections allegedly revealed unauthorised individuals operating within bank branches, including cash sections, assisting employees with banking activities and accessing branch computers. According to a report by Hello Banker, the findings raised concerns over compliance with the bank’s internal security and operational guidelines.
The alleged violations reportedly involved private individuals, including generator operators, recovery agents, insurance representatives, business correspondents and other support staff, being engaged in routine banking operations amid staff shortages at several branches. Since PNB’s policy prohibits unauthorised outsiders from participating in banking activities or accessing restricted areas, the management has reportedly initiated disciplinary action against the concerned branch heads for allowing such practices. The development highlights the importance of operational discipline, internal controls and customer data security in banking operations.
