The Ri-Bhoi district police have dismantled an inter-state network of ATM thieves operating across the country, arresting six individuals in connection with an ATM theft that occurred two years ago in the district. The Meghalaya Police Department announced the breakthrough on Thursday.
Details of the Incident
The theft took place on April 5, 2022, at the Meghalaya Cooperative Apex Bank Ltd branch in Bhoirymbong, Ri-Bhoi district. Following the incident, a case was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at the Umiam Police Station.
Investigation and Coordination
Initially, the case had very few leads. Recognizing the seriousness of the crime and the potential involvement of inter-state elements, the Superintendent of Police of Ri-Bhoi formed a special team. Led by the Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime) and other district officers, the team operated under the close supervision of the Deputy Inspector General (Eastern Range), Shillong.
In a coordinated operation, Meghalaya Police, with assistance from Assam Police and Haryana Police, successfully busted an organized gang linked to ATM cash theft cases across the country. The gang was also responsible for recent thefts in the Ri-Bhoi, East Khasi Hills, East Jaintia Hills, and North Garo Hills districts of Meghalaya.
Significance of the Operation
The operation highlights the effectiveness of inter-state police collaboration in tackling organized crime. The arrested individuals are believed to be part of a larger network that targeted ATMs in multiple states. Further investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the gang and link them to additional cases.
