ATM undamaged in ‘sophisticated’ theft

EAST London police are investigating an apparent theft from a Standard Bank automated teller machine in Buffalo Street.

It was not yet clear yesterday how much money was stolen as neither the bank nor police could comment on the amount taken.

The sophisticated theft, which left the ATM undamaged, is believed to have taken place at about 10pm on Sunday.

There were no signs of damage to the ATM when the Dispatch visited the scene yesterday.

It is believed the thieves managed to open the vault door.

Standard Bank spokeswoman Kate Johns said they were aware of the incident and investigations were under way. She could not say whether they were also probing the robbery internally.

“A case has been opened with SAPS. We can confirm that there was no forced entry to the ATM and no injuries,” she said.

The area was cordoned off while police were investigating the scene.

Police spokesman Captain Nkosikho Mzuku yesterday said no arrests had been made yet. “The suspects are still at large. “Our investigators are working around the clock, busy with the investigation. No injuries were reported to the police so far.”

Mzuku appealed to anyone with information about the case to contact the East London police station on (043) 707-0600 or Crime Stop on 08600-10111. —