In a significant crackdown, the Delhi Police have apprehended two individuals allegedly involved in a sophisticated ATM fraud scheme in the national capital. The arrests, which took place in the Kishangarh area of Southwest Delhi, also led to the recovery of an illegal firearm, cash, and specialized equipment used to tamper with cash machines.
Routine Patrol Leads to Major Breakthrough
The police action unfolded on Thursday, January 4, 2026, during a routine patrol by personnel from the Kishangarh police station. Officers noticed a man acting suspiciously in the area. According to DCP (South West) Amit Goel, the individual attempted to flee upon seeing the police team but was swiftly apprehended.
Upon searching the suspect, identified as Salman, son of Kabir, the police allegedly found a country-made pistol (desi katta) in his possession. An FIR was immediately registered under Section 25 of the Arms Act at the Kishangarh police station, leading to his arrest.
Unraveling the ATM Fraud Modus Operandi
During subsequent interrogation, Salman (Kabir's son) revealed his involvement in ATM frauds and named his associate, Salman, son of Usman, who had allegedly supplied him with the illegal weapon. Acting on this information, the police arrested the second accused.
From the duo's possession, investigators recovered a haul of incriminating items, including:
- A country-made pistol (desi katta)
- Two live cartridges
- Cash amounting to Rs 12,700
- Four ATM jamming devices
- A screwdriver used to tamper with ATM shutters
DCP Goel explained the fraud technique in detail. The accused would insert small metallic jamming clips inside the cash dispensing shutter of an ATM. When an unsuspecting customer tried to withdraw money, the transaction would be debited from their account, but the cash would not be dispensed due to the obstruction.
"Believing it to be a technical glitch and expecting a refund from their bank, the customer would leave the ATM kiosk," said Goel. "Thereafter, the accused would return, remove the jamming clip, and steal the cash that was trapped inside the machine."
Weapon Carried for 'Protection' During Crimes
The police official further stated that the accused carried the illegal firearm to protect themselves while executing these criminal acts. The recovery of the pistol and live cartridges adds a serious dimension to the case, highlighting the potential danger to the public during such frauds.
The successful operation by the Kishangarh police underscores the force's vigilance during patrols and its focus on tackling street crimes that directly impact citizens' financial security. The investigation is ongoing to determine if the duo was involved in similar incidents across the city.
