In the heart of Felsberg, Hesse, a group of greedy criminals faced life imprisonment for their actions. Their insatiable desire for money led them to commit a heinous act, exploding ATMs at a Volksbank branch, even with people residing above the branch.
The criminal duo chose the dead of night to sneak into the bank and plant explosive charges on the ATMs. At 0.57 am, two bombs detonated, causing significant damage to the building and a glass structure integrated within it. The force of the explosion threw debris around the front and back of the glass extension, almost causing the roof to collapse.
Shocked residents caught a glimpse of two figure-clad individuals fleeing the scene in a dark Audi station wagon, carrying bags loaded with stolen money. The suspects' choice of vehicle, a powerful Audi S6 model, and their preference for carrying additional fuel tanks, hint at Dutch professionals, known for their getaway methods.
If the lives of the residents were put in danger due to the blast, the perpetrators may face charges of attempted murder. Section 211 of the German Criminal Code lists greed, malice, dangerous means, and the facilitation of another crime as characteristics of murder. A maximum penalty, just like the completed crime, can also be imposed for an attempt.
The hometown police department, Schwalm-Eder, is currently seeking additional witnesses. The public prosecutor in Frankfurt am Main is leading the investigation proceedings into the series of targeted ATM attacks in Northern Hesse.
Enrichment Insights
ATM bombings typically involve a series of planning and execution steps: reconnaissance to identify vulnerable locations, the use of specialized tools to access the ATM's cash compartment, and exploitation of the ATM using physical force and technical expertise. Under the German Criminal Code, using explosives in a crime and bank robbery are punishable offenses.
Having powerful Audi S6 models equipped with additional fuel tanks for getaways may not be directly related to ATM bombing methods. However, if the vehicles are used in the commission of a crime, they can be seized during the investigation and prosecution process.
