STRATEGIC PARTNERS
January 9, 2002
LAUNCESTON, Australia -- Burglars who tried to use oxy-acetylene equipment to steal an ATM fled when the money caught fire and activated a fire alarm.
The incident occurred at shopping center, where thieves forced open doors to the gain access to a Westpac ATM, situated close to a Woolworths supermarket.
Sergeant Pat Groves, of Launceston CIB, said police and firefighters found abandoned oxy gear and a stolen utility vehicle which had apparently been used in the attempted theft. "A stolen ute was backed up there and a large amount of chain was present," he said.
The vehicle was stolen from a nearby business, but police do not yet know the origin of the oxy equipment, which was used to attempt to cut the machine away from its secure position.
But money inside the ATM caught fire and a fire alarm was triggered.
It is believed the thieves may have planned to use the ute to wrench the ATM from its position.
Police are seeking public assistance and want to hear from anyone who saw a white utility with the Tamar Marine name and logo on both sides.
