Police have issued CCTV images in a warning over cashpoint crooks who are tricking bank customers out of hundreds of pounds.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1jTFzyDa7Q
Thieves were caught on camera while stealing £350 from a man withdrawing money from a hole in the wall at the Santander branch in High Road Loughton.
A video clip and still photographs from the CCTV are now being released as part of an appeal for witnesses and also to warn all cashpoint users to be extra vigilant when using bank machines.
The images show how the victim was approached by two men who stood either side of him. Moments before the cash was about to emerge from the machine one of the thieves, who was standing on a hidden £10 note, flicks the note beneath the user then taps him on the shoulder to say he had dropped the cash.
As the victim bent to pick up the note the second man grabbed the £350 from the machine and walked away.
Meanwhile a third member of the gang started chatting with a woman waiting to use the machine to prevent her seeing what was happening.
The victim, a 57-year-old man from Loughton, was not immediately aware of the theft and thought that the cash machine was faulty.
The incident happened on Wednesday August 25 2010 at about 1.50pm.
The three men involved were all of Far Eastern appearance, of slim build and between 5ft 5in and 5ft 7in tall. One was wearing a powder blue and grey waterproof sports jacket.
Anyone with information should contact the investigating officer Pc Ryan Burgess at Loughton police station on 0300 333 4444.
Keep an eye on your cash
Epping Forest Crime Reduction Officer Tony Ellis said: The gang’s timing is incredible and they have this scam down to a fine art. The victim did not see the money being stolen. He saw that his card was returned but believed the cash was stuck in the machine. We have had several reports of unexplained thefts from cash machines but this is the first time we have had confirmation of the method used.”
Mr Ellis gave the following advice to prevent similar thefts at cash machines.
“When you are using an ATM there is a tendency to focus purely on the machine as you carry out your transaction. Be aware of your surroundings. If anybody is standing so close to you that they can see your hands don't enter your pin number. Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable discontinue the transaction and walk away
“Always cover your hand when you enter your pin number.
“If someone tries to gain your attention in any way as you are carrying out a transaction ignore them. Concentrate on the machine and retrieving your bank card and cash safely as a priority. If they are genuine they will still be there when your bank card and money is safely back in your pocket. “
For any further information please contact Epping Forest Crime Reduction Officer, Tony Ellis on 0300 333 4444 or Epping Forest Safer Communities Officer, Paul Gardener on 01992 564341.
