Warning following suspicious incidents at ATMs in Burton and Tamworth
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Officers are urging people to be vigilant after a number of reported incidents outside of cash machines in Burton and Tamworth in recent days.
On Thursday (11 November), four similar incidents were reported.
At approximately 9:45am, an elderly man was approached by a group of three men whilst using an ATM on Marlborough Way, Tamworth.
It is believed that one man advised the elderly man that the machine was out of order whilst another had used the card to withdraw cash.
A similar incident occurred the same day, at 11:30am on George Street, Tamworth.
An elderly woman was using an ATM when a group of three men approached her.
Similarly, it is believed that one man distracted the woman whilst another used her card to withdraw cash.
Two similar incidents also occurred on the same day in Burton.
At approximately 11:45am, two men approached an elderly woman whilst she was using an ATM on High Street, Burton-upon-Trent.
Her bank card and cash were taken by the men who left the scene immediately after.
A similar incident occurred on Station St, Burton-upon-Trent a few minutes later.
At approximately 11:50am, an elderly man was approached by a man whilst using an ATM.
The man proceeded to press buttons on the machine, advising the elderly man that the cash machine was out of order.
One suspect is described as a middle-aged man, with short dark hair.
Sergeant Matthew Williams, of East Staffordshire Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “An investigation is ongoing into these incidents.
“I would urge users of cash machines to make sure there is no one behind them or congregating near a machine whilst they are using it.
“If possible, under indoor machines, ideally in your banking branch.
“Please do not use a cash machine if you feel like you are being watched or it does not feel safe to do so and report any suspicious activity immediately”.
Anyone who may have seen what happened in relation to these three incidents is asked to contact Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter, or call 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.