Twelve suspects, ranging from 23 to 42 years old, are currently under investigation for a series of alleged vending machine burglaries in Germany. The public prosecutor's office in Bamberg, Germany, has charged these individuals, initially indicting them in October 2022. The accusations include commercial gang theft and causing an explosion of explosives, with further charges of destruction of buildings due to the property damage exceeding 5.5 million euros.
The suspects, hailing from Belgium and the Netherlands, are believed to have blown up twenty-seven ATMs across Germany since November 2021. The incidents primarily occurred in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. The Bamberg Regional Court is now tasked with deciding on these charges.
The authorities executed twelve arrest warrants against the suspects in January 2023, during searches conducted in the Netherlands. The investigation into the group began in response to five ATM blasts in Upper Franconia between November 2021 and October 2022.
According to the prosecutor's office, the suspects operated as a well-organized gang, blowing up ATMs in Germany and stealing the cash stored within. Their methods were described as highly professional, with members frequently changing roles.
Four additional arrest warrants were executed in September 2023, targeting a follow-up group alleged to have blown up an ATM in the Bamberg district in June 2023. This group is also suspected of participating in other criminal activities.
The investigation into this case is ongoing, with law enforcement agencies seeking to uncover any further information related to the ATM burglaries. The accused have been charged with engaging in a series of illegal activities that include explosives use and significant property damage, in addition to commercial theft.
Sources: -
Insights: - ATM burglaries using explosives are a significant issue in Germany, with this group responsible for over 27 incidents since November 2021. - The group is believed to have operated in a highly organized and professional manner, often changing their line-up to avoid detection. - The charges brought against these individuals include commercial theft, causing an explosion, and destruction of buildings due to the extensive property damage caused.
