Sophisticated Robbery Ring Uses Blowtorches, Cell Jammers in Multi-State ATM Heist
In a recent crackdown, federal authorities have unraveled a sophisticated bank robbery operation allegedly orchestrated by a group of South American nationals across multiple U.S. states. The group, largely composed of individuals from Chile, used a strikingly organized approach, employing blowtorches, cell signal jammers, and construction disguises to execute their heists. The strategy allowed them to access ATMs and bank vaults in California, Oregon, and Washington, where they stole over $4 million in cash.
Also Read:- Weather's Impact on Voter Turnout: Insights for Election Day 2024
- Service Suspended on Montreal Metro's Green Line After Major Water Infiltration
According to federal prosecutors, the robbers meticulously mapped out their targets, typically choosing ATMs and banks located in vulnerable or lightly guarded areas. These suspects went as far as to rent short-term vacation properties near each target site to remain inconspicuous while carrying out their plans. In what is described as an elaborate scheme, the group obtained vehicles from black-market sources and used them to travel between targeted locations, avoiding rental records that might have otherwise connected them to the crime scenes. Their disguises—often high-visibility vests, helmets, and masks—further helped them blend in as construction crews, deflecting attention and raising no suspicions from passersby.
One notable incident occurred in Modesto, California, where the group reportedly broke into a neighboring business and cut through the wall to access the bank’s ATM. In other cases, they used blowtorches and saws to penetrate the secure areas, and in some instances, they were even interrupted mid-heist, forcing them to leave tools and evidence behind. Following a months-long investigation, the FBI tracked the suspects to short-term rentals in Oregon and Washington. Here, agents discovered hundreds of pounds of equipment used for robberies, including power tools, jamming devices, false IDs, and $100,000 in cash. Arrests soon followed, with nine suspects apprehended in California and two more in Washington on October 30, effectively dismantling the group.
The suspects now face charges including conspiracy to commit bank robbery, with some facing additional charges of bank robbery itself. If convicted, each individual could face up to 20 years in prison for bank robbery and an additional five years for conspiracy.
Read More:
0 Comments