Ashdod Police Cracks Down on ATM Robbery Squad
The Ashdod police, in the Lakish area, have successfully conducted an investigation against a group suspected of operating an ATM theft ring. Targeting businesses in the southern region, particularly the city of Ashdod, the squad specialized in stealing and robbing ATM machines. Recent incidents on Orig Street and Avoda prompted the police to take action.
On June 29, 2023, and July 2, 2023, the suspects used a towing cable to displace the ATM devices from their original locations. In the latter case, they even dragged the ATM along the road in Ashdod, endangering the public. Eventually, they abandoned both the vehicle and the stolen ATM in an open area and fled the scene.
The Ashdod police arrived promptly, seizing the evidence and utilizing technological investigative operations to assist in identifying the accused. The Ashdod municipality’s Moked Roa also played a crucial role in aiding the investigation. As a result, the authorities were able to apprehend the suspects for questioning.
Further investigation revealed that the defendants had falsified and changed the license plate numbers of the stolen vehicle to hamper attempts to locate them. However, the police gathered sufficient evidence against them.
The two defendants, both young individuals from the diaspora who had been residing in the southern region since the 1920s, will face charges. The Police Prosecution Unit in Lakish will file an indictment at the Peace Court in Ashkelon. Additionally, they will request that the defendants be detained until the conclusion of the legal proceedings.
This successful crackdown on the ATM robbery squad sends a clear message to criminals, demonstrating the Ashdod police’s commitment to protecting businesses and ensuring the safety of the community.