Loud explosions and high-stakes are often signature hallmarks of dramatic Hollywood movie heists or video games of the Grand Theft Auto variety. But much to the surprise of those living in the Setia Alam area, a bank branch located in the neighbourhood became the target of a dramatic robbery after thieves blew-up two Automatic Teller Machines to pilfer its contents.
Thieves blow up 2 ATMs in Setia Alam during daring heist
As reported by local newspaper The New Straits Times, the incident took place in the early hours of yesterday (February 23rd, 2023) morning, when three masked robbers made their way over to the bank branch.
According to Shah Alam police chief Assistant Commissioner Mohd Iqbal Ibrahim, local authorities received a tip-off from members of the public about the robbery at around 6.48am, informing them that the machines had exploded and that cash was stolen.
Upon arriving to survey the scene of the crime, investigators found the floor littered with debris and broken parts from the explosion, with only one of the two machines remaining intact.
“One ATM was successfully opened while another was not. Investigations indicated three suspects had entered the premises and the CCTV footage was obscured after they sprayed black paint on the cameras.” Ibrahim told The Star.
Escaped with RM349,000
Based upon findings obtained by the Bomb Disposal Unit and Post Ballistic Investigation team, the explosions were believed to be caused by gas pressure. The three suspects are believed to have arrived at the scene of the crime in a white Mitsubishi ASX compact SUV.
As a consequence, the robbers managed to escape with a total of RM349,000 in cash within five minutes. The bank branch estimates that both ATM machines involved in the robbery to be valued at RM60,000.
The case will now be investigated under Section 436 and 379 of the Penal Code for causing mischief using explosive devices and theft. Those with information pertaining to the robbery are urged to contact investigating officer ASP Mohammad Khairi at 012-2666025.
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