Police reveal number of cash machine thefts in Yorkshire - this is how you can help prevent them

Across the Yorkshire and Humber Region there have been 92 thefts or attempted thefts of ATMs and / or the contents of them so far in 2018 with the tactics being used by thieves becoming increasingly dangerous.

READ: Armed police search Wakefield properties in hunt for wanted manDangerous tactics which include pumping flammable gas into a machine or dragging it all away are being used and criminals are risking their own lives and those of others living or working nearby.

Of the 92 attacks, 31 resulted in some form of loss – so either cash taken or an entire ATM. In the rest of the attacks nothing was stolen.

The Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Team are using a variety of new and emerging technologies to deter criminals.

These tactics are having a positive impact but police also need communities to help make a difference too.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Howard of the Regional Team, said:

“Cash machines can be a vital local resource to people – especially in more rural areas. People can rely on them as a nearby supply of available cash.

“But it can take up to seven months for a damaged or stolen machine to be replaced – so the entire community can be the victim with the next nearest ATM could be many miles away.

“Stealing (or attempting to steal) a cash machine is not an easy task and criminals are using increasingly dangerous and desperate methods which are risking lives.

READ: Latest mobile speed camera locations in Leeds“Criminals though are showing a complete disregard for their own safety and that of others and I am very surprised that no one has been seriously injured or even killed. I am therefore calling on residents to help us to stop more ATMs being taken and attempts being made.

“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.”

READ: New Dispute Resolution Ombudsman to handle complaints from Yorkshire rail passengersWest Yorkshire Police has an online portal where shopkeepers can report any suspicious activity directly.

Suspicious activity could include:

- People acting suspiciously around an ATM – for example leaning against it or driving past slowly – often in the early morning or late at night

- Watch out for Transit type vehicles parked across from ATMs – especially in the early hours.

- Roof tiles out of place above a machine

- The criminals often use teleporters – so if you see one being stored in an unusual place or being driven around at an unusual time of the day

- Shopkeepers – are your CCTV systems and alarms up to date and in good working order? Do you have a vacant property to the side? Criminals will often use such a building as part of their operation.