Police Advisory
The Kudus Resort Police in Central Java has issued a stern warning to residents to stay alert against criminal activities aimed at siphoning money from bank accounts by obstructing ATM cards in ATM machines to steal PINs along with the cards.
Urgent Reporting
“Residents are urged to immediately report any issues with their ATM cards being trapped or unable to be retrieved from the ATM machine. Even if assistance is offered, it’s advisable to report it directly to the bank,” stated Deputy Head of Kudus Police, Commissioner Satya Adi Nugraha, alongside Head of Criminal Investigation Unit AKP Danang Sri Wiratno.
Case Disclosure
The alert comes following the revelation of a case involving a BRI Bank customer whose funds were drained by a group of criminals. The incident began when the victim, identified as DB, sought help from an unknown individual at the Rendeng Kudus ATM machine on March 2, 2024. DB was in the process of making a money transfer when his ATM card became stuck in the machine. Good Samaritans, including the perpetrator, advised DB to attempt a cash withdrawal and then report the incident to the bank.
Criminal Alibi Exposed
“However, it turned out that coaxing an unknown individual to withdraw cash served as an alibi for the gang of perpetrators who hacked into the ATM card to obtain the victim’s PIN. The victim only realized the theft when he checked his savings account at BRI Bank on March 4, 2024, to find his balance depleted by Rp. 993 million.
Arrest and Confession
Following the report to Kudus Police, an investigation was launched, leading to the arrest of one of the four gang members involved in blocking ATM cards. The suspect, identified as “SE,” admitted to using modified mineral water bottles and glue to block ATM machines before waiting for customers to withdraw money.
Division of Proceeds
SE confessed that the proceeds were divided among the four of them, with each purchasing a car and using a portion of the money for leisure activities.
Seizure of Illicit Gains
In addition to SE’s arrest, police seized Rp. 5 million in cash and a Brio car bought with the ill-gotten gains. Efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining three perpetrators who are still at large.
Stay Vigilant
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance when using ATMs and the necessity of promptly reporting any suspicious activities to prevent financial losses.
