A gang stole an entire ATM machine containing approximately ₹10 lakh from a bank in Dharmavaram, Andhra Pradesh. The incident occurred at the SBI ATM located near the RTC bus stand during the early hours of May 16, 2024.
Police suspect a well-organized network was involved, given the logistical challenge of removing the entire ATM – weighing around 800 kg – without attracting attention. Preliminary investigations suggest the perpetrators used a gas cutter to disable the security alarms and then employed a vehicle, likely a lorry or a large truck, to transport the machine.
CCTV footage revealed four individuals were involved in the heist. They were masked and completed the operation within approximately two hours, between 2:30 AM and 4:30 AM. The ATM was secured with minimal external security measures, contributing to the ease of the theft.
Police are currently analyzing CCTV footage from surrounding areas and highways to identify the vehicle used and track the gang’s movements. They are also investigating potential inside information that may have aided the perpetrators. Fingerprint analysis is underway at the scene.
The Dharmavaram police have registered a case and formed special teams to investigate the matter. They are coordinating with neighboring districts and states to apprehend the suspects. This is a rare incident, as ATM thefts usually involve breaking into the machine to steal cash, rather than removing the entire unit. The police believe this indicates a higher level of planning and professional execution. The SBI branch has initiated measures to restore ATM services in the area.
