Omagh Man Arrested Over ATM Thefts

Detectives investigating a series of ATM thefts in Co Tyrone have arrested a man in Omagh.

The 26 year-old is being held on suspicion of theft and attempted theft offences in relation to incidents in the Omagh, Fintona and Irvinestown areas between December 2018 and March 2019.

A number of searches were carried out in Omagh and nearby Seskinore, with items seized for further examination.

Detective Superintendent Rowan Moore from the PSNI's Criminal Investigation Branch said: "ATM thefts cause loss and devastation, both to the business owners and to the local communities, many of whom are rural and depend on their local ATM provision for access to cash.

"During our investigation we have seen the positive result of the community and police working together to catch those we believe are responsible for the theft of ATMS. However, we are not complacent and we continue to focus on doing everything we can to catch those responsible for previous incidents and prevent further thefts."

Use of cash dispensers is likely to increase in the run up to Christmas and members of the public are urged to report anything suspicious. As construction work draws to a halt over the holidays, those who own heavy plant machinery are also urged to be mindful and take every possible step to secure and immobilise their machinery.

Detective Superintendent Moore added: "If criminals cannot steal diggers, they cannot tear out ATMs. This will also mean that these expensive pieces of machinery are not destroyed or burnt out.

"We remain committed to investigating and preventing ATM attacks and I would appeal for the community to continue to support our efforts."

Unusual activity around business premises, especially outside of opening hours, should be reported immediately. This includes any people or vehicles loitering in areas close to ATMs.

Anyone who hears machinery late at night or in the early hours is urged to call police on the non-emergency number 101 or 999 if it is suspected that a crime is in progress.

"The key to stopping these crimes and getting ahead of these criminals is information from the public," Detective Superintendent Moore concluded.

Details can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, including information that could help apprehend those responsible for previous ATM attacks.



(JG/MH)