“We continue to focus on doing everything we can to catch those responsible and prevent further thefts of ATMs.”
With wholesale ATM theft on the rise, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has issued a fresh appeal to the public to report suspicious activity over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Speaking on Friday, Detective Superintendent Rachel Shields said:
“In relation to ATM attacks, we have seen the positive result of the community and police successfully working together to tackle crime over the past week.
“However, this does not mean we will become complacent. We continue to focus on doing everything we can to catch those responsible and prevent further thefts of ATMs.
“We will have local police patrolling areas at night which could be vulnerable to an attack and detectives remain dedicated to investigating the thefts that have taken place.”
Shields also appealed directly to the public, asking them to remain “vigilant” over the weekend.
“If you see anything suspicious, including seeing any unusual activity, people or vehicles loitering in areas close to ATMs, let us know.
“If you hear machinery late at night or in the early hours please call us on the non-emergency number 101 or 999 if you think a crime is in progress.
“You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Furthermore, it has been advised that anyone who owns or operates heavy plant machinery should take every step to secure and immobilise their vehicles.
“If criminals cannot steal diggers and other similar machinery, they cannot tear out ATMs,” noted Shields.
“Every single one of these attacks impacts the community significantly – denying access to money and on many occasions causing inconvenience as the shop or filling station is forced to close for repair.
“This remains a key priority for us.”
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