ATM explosion in Martino: two arrested and €43,420 theft
Video evidence of a criminal network's attack on an ATM in Martino, Phthiotis, has been released to the public. Two Greek men, aged 44 and 29, were arrested on 14 September.
Video released of ATM attack in Martino — two arrests
Video evidence documenting a criminal network's operation in Martino, Phthiotis, has been released to the public, according to Ta Nea. The network, whose members are accused of vehicle thefts and ATM explosions, was dismantled by the Organised Crime Directorate following an official announcement.
Two Greek men, aged 44 and 29, were arrested on Monday afternoon, 14 September, following a police operation in areas of Attica and Corinthia. The operation was conducted by officers from the Property Crimes Division of the Life and Property Crimes Prosecution Unit. A case file was drawn up against them for criminal network involvement, forgery, explosions, damage to others' property, robbery, as well as violations of firearms and flare legislation.
Improvised mechanism and stolen crane truck
According to ELAS investigations, the accused allegedly formed a structured group in late 2023, aimed at vehicle thefts and ATM break-ins at supermarkets in the provinces. In December 2023 they manufactured an improvised explosive device using solid explosives and placed it on an ATM in Martino, with their features concealed and armed.
Using a wire rope and a crane truck which they allegedly had stolen earlier from the same area, they towed the ATM safe—which contained €43,420—and loaded it into another stolen van-type vehicle.
Seizures: pistol, flares and forgery tools
During searches of residences and body searches of the two accused, a pistol with a magazine and seven rounds of ammunition, two wireless transceivers, four nautical flares, a folding knife, two car computers, vehicle forgery tools and metal dies for engraving frame numbers were seized. Also found were numerous mobile phones, €750, a wristwatch and a private car which was used to commit the offences.
From ELAS investigations, the involvement of the two accused in two further vehicle thefts from October to December 2023 in Kifissia and Metamorfosi has been identified. Both arrested individuals have previously come to police attention for similar and other offences, according to the same source, and were referred to the competent prosecutorial authority.
Source: Ta Nea