Moment ATM Fraud Suspects in South Tangerang Neutralised Amid 'Shoot' Cries

Police have arrested three suspects, identified by the initials AN, IRA, and MH, involved in an ATM tampering scheme in South Tangerang. The arrests took place while the suspects were in the act at Buah Hati Hospital, Pamulang.

The incident occurred on Thursday morning. Circulating video footage shows residents chasing the suspects after their attempt failed, with some onlookers kicking the suspects to the ground. Shouts of ‘shoot’ were also heard during the apprehension. In subsequent footage, the suspects can be seen bound after being successfully caught and subsequently taken into police custody.

Pamulang Police Chief, AKP Galuh Febri Saputra, confirmed that officers had to take measured, firm action as the suspects resisted arrest and were armed with sharp weapons. “Ultimately, from this incident, our personnel carried out the arrest. However, during the arrest, the suspects resisted and attempted to flee, necessitating measured, firm action,” AKP Galuh Febri Saputra told reporters on Thursday.

Modus Operandi: Offering Assistance

Kombes Budi Hermanto, Head of Public Relations for the Metro Jaya Regional Police, explained that the suspects would obstruct the ATM mechanism so that the victim’s card would not be ejected. They would then pretend to offer assistance in order to seize the card. “We urge the public to always remain vigilant when transacting at ATM machines,” Budi told reporters on Friday.

From the scene, officers seized evidence including two motorcycles, one BCA ATM card, two knives, and other related items. The police have requested that the public exercise greater caution and report any similar suspicious activities immediately. AKP Galuh Febri Saputra previously noted that the suspects divided roles, including obstructing the machine, offering help to customers, and monitoring the surrounding area.