Ajman: Ajman Police have arrested five men for stealing cash from ATM machines.
The European suspects are alleged to have installed electronic devices in the ATM, which copied data cards of bank customers. The suspects fixed tiny cameras on ATMs to record people’s four-digit PIN numbers, they then inserted magnetic cards carrying the same data as the person’s original bank card and keyed in the PIN number to withdraw cash.
The incident came to light after police were tipped off over suspicious acts of two men around ATMs in a shopping mall.
CID managed to track down the suspects after an intensive investigation and arrested them
Colonel Abdullah Saif Al Matroushi, Director of Criminal and Investigation Department, said police found a number of plastic cards in the suspects’ possession at the time of arrest.
The suspects confessed to their crime and have been referred to the public prosecution.
Col Al Matroushi urged bank clients and ATM users to protect themselves from becoming victims of theft by reporting any suspicious transactions immediately.
They should also notify their bank immediately about any changes in their personal data or registered phone number.
He advised people never to share their bank codes with their friends or to carry large amounts of cash. Bank customers are also advised against leaving bags or envelopes containing money in places where criminals can easily access them. People should also be on their guard before and after withdrawing money and promptly report any suspicious activity or person. Walking alone in isolated or deserted places at night, especially after withdrawing money from ATMs, is also inadvisable.
Col Al Matroushi urged people not to hesitate to call the police if they spot any suspicious activity while visiting banks or in the vicinity of ATMs, or if they feel they are being followed.
