A meticulously coordinated multi-State investigation has led to the busting of an organised interstate ATM theft gang and the arrest of six persons, in a significant breakthrough following a high-profile break-in at the Meghalaya Cooperative Apex Bank Ltd. ATM in Bhoirymbong. The case, which initially presented minimal leads, has now exposed a wider criminal network operating across several districts of Meghalaya and other parts of the country, underlining growing concerns over targeted attacks on vulnerable banking infrastructure in remote areas.
“A theft/break-in occurred at ATM of Meghalaya Cooperative Apex Bank Ltd. Bhoirymbong Branch located at Bhoirymbong, Ri-Bhoi District, Meghalaya on 5th of April 2026. Hence, Umiam PS C/No. 20(04)2026 U/S 305(a)/331(4)/324(5)/61 (2)(b)/3(5) BNS was registered in Ri-Bhoi District,” Giri Prasad M, IPS Superintendent of Police, Ri-Bhoi District, Nongpoh, said.
“Initially, the case had very limited leads, looking at the seriousness of the issue and the possibility of involvernent of inter-state elements, a special team was constituted by Superintendent of Police, Ri-Bhoi led by Addl. Superintendent of Police (Crime), Ri-Bhoi and other Police officers of the district under the close supervision of the DIG (Eastern Range), Shillong,” he said.
“In this coordinated operation, Meghalaya Police with the assistance of Assam Police, Haryana Police busted an organized gang linked to ATM cash theft cases across the country and in Meghalaya Ri-Bhoi, East Khasi Hills, East Jaintia Hills, North Garo Hills which are more recent. In this major success, police so far have arrested 6(six) persons involved in uprooting ATM machines using gas cutters to break ATM safes and flee with cash within minutes,” he added.
“The gang was highly specialized and targeted rernote locations with low security. The investigation continues to uncover the full network. Further links are also being probed,” Prasad said.
Interstate ATM theft gang busted after Bhoirymbong break-in, six arrested
