Bengaluru Duo Swindles Rs 1.49 Lakh from Pensioner's ATM Card in Distraction Theft
Police in Bengaluru are investigating a clever ATM theft case. Two individuals stole a bank card and withdrew a substantial sum of money. They used a simple but effective distraction technique to carry out their crime.
How the Theft Unfolded
The incident occurred on December 30, between 8:00 PM and 8:30 PM. A 67-year-old man visited an Indian Bank ATM located on 80 feet road in the city. He regularly withdrew money from his 91-year-old mother-in-law's pension account each month. His usual withdrawal amount ranged from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000.
While the pensioner was at the ATM machine, two suspects approached him. They created a diversion to shift his attention away from the transaction. In the confusion, they managed to steal his ATM card without him noticing immediately.
Financial Impact of the Crime
The thieves did not stop at just stealing the card. They proceeded to withdraw a total of Rs 1.49 lakh from the pension account. This amount represents a significant loss for the elderly victim and his family. Pension accounts often contain limited funds meant for essential living expenses.
Local authorities have registered a First Information Report based on the victim's complaint. The FIR details the sequence of events that led to the financial theft. Police are now reviewing CCTV footage from the ATM location and surrounding areas. They hope to identify the two individuals involved in this distraction theft.
Safety Tips for ATM Users
This case highlights the importance of vigilance at ATM centers. Criminals often target elderly users who may be less aware of such tactics. Here are some precautions to consider:
- Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN number.
- Be cautious of strangers who approach you at ATMs.
- Check your surroundings before beginning a transaction.
- Immediately report any lost or stolen cards to your bank.
- Consider using ATMs during daylight hours in busy areas.
The Bengaluru police urge citizens to remain alert while using banking facilities. They advise reporting any suspicious behavior around ATMs promptly. This incident serves as a reminder that even routine financial activities require careful attention to security.
