Surat : The Udhna Police have arrested two members of a gang involved in swapping ATM cards and withdrawing money from unsuspecting victims in Surat city and the surrounding district. The arrests solved two previously registered cases at Dindoli and Pandesara police stations, and police suspect the gang may be responsible for several other similar crimes.
Modus Operandi: Help with a Hidden Motive
The accused, identified as Ankit alias Lalla Yadav and Ritwik alias Bholasingh, targeted individuals at ATMs, offering help under the guise of assisting them with the process. While pretending to guide the victims, they would cleverly switch their ATM cards. Later, they would use the stolen cards at different ATMs to withdraw money, indulging in a spending spree to buy expensive mobile phones and Bergman mopeds.
Investigation Leads to Bust
The Udhna police team, investigating numerous complaints of ATM fraud, managed to track down and apprehend the duo. During interrogation, Ankit and Ritwik confessed to their involvement in multiple such incidents across Surat district, including Udhna, Dindoli, Pandesara, and Palsana. The police recovered 30 ATM cards of various banks, a Bergman moped, two mobile phones, and other items worth Rs 1.30 lakh from their possession.
Further Action and Motive
Both accused, who are also drug addicts, have been arrested and presented in court for remand. The investigation is ongoing, with the police exploring the possibility of their involvement in additional crimes. This case highlights the importance of vigilance at ATMs and avoiding assistance from strangers, especially when dealing with your financial information.
