Audacious ATM heists across region 'linked'

At least two of three recent brazen ATM heists, on the Darling Downs, in which chains have been used to drag machines from shop-fronts are linked.

AT LEAST two of three recent brazen ATM heists in which chains have been used to drag machines from shop-fronts are linked, with investigators closing in on those responsible.

Detectives believe offenders have chosen their targets deliberately due to their locations, where the cash machines are stored in the shop, and the likelihood of witnesses.

"They're picking their targets in areas where they believe they won't be disturbed," Darling Downs Detective Inspector Lew Strohfeldt told The Chronicle.

"The security in those places, while there is some security, it wouldn't be described as strong."

Damage done to The Farmers Arms Tavern in Cabarlah by thieves on Sunday morning.

ATMs have been stolen from the Gowrie One Stop Convenience Centre and the Farmer's Arms Tavern in Cabarlah in the past month.

In both of those instances, the shop was smashed and offenders wrapped a chain around the machine, dragging it outside.

A third effort, at the Puma service station in Harristown, failed when the machine, bolted to the cement floor, didn't yield.

Each offence, however, has required time, Inspector Strohfeldt said.

ATM theft at Gowrie One Stop Convenience Centre. Wednesday, 15th May, 2019.

"Because of their locations, they (offenders) had the opportunity to be able to spend time there," he said.

As investigations continue into each of the offences detectives now believe are linked, Inspector Strohfeldt said businesses may consider revising their store layouts.

"With the location of the ATMs, it's a trade off in an area that's very accessible to their patrons, or to have them in an area not easily accessible (to outside offenders)," he said.

"They (ATMs) need to be bolted to solid structures or cement floors.

Ram raid at Puma service station on corner of Stephen St and Anzac Avenue. Wednesday, 12th June, 2019.

"It's not going to stop these offences but it may help limit them."

Inspector Strohfeldt said detectives were running down several lines of inquiry into the incidents.

Phone Policelink on 131 444.