Europol, together with Dutch and German law enforcement authorities, have taken decisive action against a Netherlands-based criminal group believed to be specialised in ATM robberies using explosives.
Eighteen members of the highly specialised criminal group were arrested over a series of action days. The Dutch nationals allegedly had extensive experience in blowing up cash machines with solid explosives, causing at least €1.5 million in damages and looting at least €1.2 million, of which around €290,000 could be seized so far.
In total, €360,000 in cash and over €600,000 in cryptocurrencies were seized, along with gear and vehicles used for robberies. Investigators could link ATM attacks or related activities in Germany, Switzerland and France to this group.
This series of successful operations is the result of a comprehensive action plan developed by a dedicated Operational Task Force comprising Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Switzerland, coordinated by Europol.
The group, comprising up to 20 Dutch nationals, was primarily based in the greater Utrecht area, with some members also residing in Amsterdam. As a highly specialised criminal group, they are believed to have targeted cash machines across several Federal States in Germany.
Investigations have revealed an increasingly sophisticated approach by the criminals, who employ measures such as counter-surveillance, collaborate with other groups, and rely on infrastructure like garages when committing robberies.
Dutch and German law enforcement, supported and coordinated by Europol, dealt a series of blows against the suspected ATM robbers.
All actions except for the arrest in Spain took place across the Netherlands. Law enforcement authorities performed dozens of house searches, seizing over €360,000 in cash, including bills stained by dye packs.
Furthermore, a crypto wallet allegedly used for money laundering, worth over €600,000, was seized, along with a large amount of equipment used in ATM attacks. This includes explosives, jerrycans with gasoline, license plates, SIM cards, cash counting machines and vehicles, including four linked to several robberies.
The perpetrators apprehended in this operation followed an established criminal modus operandi: first, they scouted for suitable attack sites across several countries, both online and on-site. Easily accessible cash machines with comparatively modest security measures and convenient getaway options are preferred targets.
After identifying and scoping out potential attack locations, the robbers return during the night and rig the cash machines with solid explosives. Activated from a short distance, the detonations typically not only destroy the ATMs but also devastate the surrounding area.
As these attacks are often carried out in residential areas, they can cause significant damage to buildings and their occupants. Upon grabbing the accessible cash, the criminals use high-powered vehicles for their hasty getaways.
This criminal phenomenon stands out for its unscrupulous nature and the extreme risks taken by the perpetrators, both at the crime scene and during the escape.
