ATM bandit charged

A 35-year-old Valencia man who attempted to remove a vault from an ATM machine at Caparo Village two weeks ago was arrested at his home on Friday.

The suspect was charged yesterday by PC Ramoutar of the Central Division with attempting to break into an ATM machine, breaking into the Shop Rite Variety Store and possession of an implement used for breaking into buildings.

He is expected to appear before a Chaguanas Magistrate today.

According to police reports between October 17 and 18, the First Citizens Bank replenished cash at the vault of the ATM machine in Caparo and the suspect allegedly cut a hole in the wall at the south side where the ATM was located, attempting to remove the vault.

When he experienced difficulties in getting the vault, the suspect opted to break into Shop Rite Variety store located in the same building and escaped with valuable items.

The matter was reported to the Chaguanas police and officers of the Central Division under the supervision of the head of POS CID Ag Senior Supt Ajith Persad and Assistant Commissioner of Police Irwin Hackshaw led a team of officers in investigating the crime.

After several days of thorough investigations, the suspect was detained at his home and later charged. He is also expected to be questioned in connection with other similar offences in the Central Division.