Cuttack, Nov 9 (UDN): Cuttack Police have busted an alleged ATM theft racket and arrested two persons accused of targeting unsuspecting customers at ATM kiosks across Cuttack, Jajpur and Bhubaneswar.
The investigation has also revealed how the accused allegedly spent the money obtained through the thefts, including purchasing expensive gifts and branded items for their wives.
According to police, one of the accused reportedly bought branded clothes, shoes and costly watches to fulfil his wife’s preferences. Several luxury items allegedly purchased with the stolen money have also been seized.
CCTV Footage, Local Intelligence Crack Case
The accused allegedly operated at ATM counters in different locations, taking advantage of customers visiting the kiosks to withdraw cash.
CCTV footage from the targeted areas, along with local intelligence inputs, helped investigators identify the suspects and establish their alleged involvement in multiple criminal activities.
Cuttack DCP Rishikesh Dnyandeo Khilari said, “Through CCTV footage and local intelligence, we found that these two accused are involved in several criminal activities.”
One Accused Has 43 Criminal Cases
Police records indicate that one of the arrested persons has 43 cases registered against him since 2017, while three cases have been registered against the other accused.
The recovery of the stolen money and other valuables has further helped the police establish evidence in the case.
Cash, 18 Cards And Luxury Items Seized
During the operation, police recovered around Rs 40,000 in suspected stolen cash and seized 18 credit and debit cards from the accused.
Several branded clothes, watches and other expensive belongings were also recovered. Investigators are expected to examine the seized items as part of the probe into the alleged theft racket.
The arrests have exposed the alleged activities of the gang, which reportedly targeted ATM users across three districts. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the full extent of the thefts and identify any additional links.