Police investigating attacks against ATM machines in the Yorkshire and Durham Regions have arrested four people.
Officers from the Yorkshire and the Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit arrested the three males and one woman a series of raids in the Bradford, Darlington and Middlesbrough areas.
Cash-machines were targeted across the Yorkshire and Durham regions between 26 October last year and 14 February this year. Over £300,000 was stolen as well as thousands of pounds worth of damage caused to nearby buildings and businesses.
The three men aged 34 (arrested in Bradford), 34 (arrested in Darlington) and 45 (arrested in Middlesbrough) were arrested on suspicion of: Conspiracy to Cause an Explosion, Conspiracy to Commit Burglary, Conspiracy to Commit Theft and conspiracy to enter into / be concerned in the acquisition / retention / use or control of criminal property.
The woman (45) was arrested in Middlesbrough on suspicion of Conspiracy to enter into / be concerned in the acquisition / retention / use or control of criminal property.
All of those arrested have been released under investigation.
Detective Inspector Lee Fletcher of the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit, said: “Increasingly dangerous tactics are being used by some criminals who are trying to take ATMs. We are working closely with police forces, local communities and the ATM industry to prevent and detect such offences.
“We need people to report any suspicious activity they see to us. Even if it turns out to be incorrect information or it doesn’t lead anywhere it can help us to build up a more complete intelligence picture.
“One call could make all the difference.”
Vehicles and cash were seized during the operation.
