Thieves steal ATM in Balikpapan

BALIKPAPAN, East Kalimantan: A one-ton Bank Bali automated teller machine (ATM) was carried off by thieves from the Balikpapan Permai shopping center early yesterday morning.

The daring robbery has befuddled police officers.

"This is the first time anything like this has ever happened," Balikpapan Police Chief Lt. Col. Pranowo said yesterday, adding that prior attempts were only directed toward getting cash out, not taking away the whole machine.

A Bank Bali staff member, H. Wijaya, said there was about Rp 30 million (US$10,100) inside the ATM, while the machine itself cost around Rp 60 million. (42)