Abu Dhabi: Three men have been arrested in the capital for attempting to steal from residents as they withdrew money from automatic teller machines (ATMs), the Abu Dhabi Police announced in a statement sent on Saturday.
The three men, B.N., N.Kh. and B. Kh., of Asian origin, usually targeted women whom they had observed withdrawing cash. The police have therefore urged women to exercise caution and have recommended that they avoid going to an ATM alone or late at night.
According to Colonel Dr Rashid Bu Rasheed, director of criminal investigation at the Abu Dhabi Police, the men were caught in traps set near three separate ATM outlets.
“The men would usually position themselves near an ATM and keep a close watch on customers. At the same time, an accomplice would spill some oil on the ground near the back of the car,” the official explained.
On returning to the car, most people would think that their car was having some trouble. As they inspected the oil, the men would open the front door of the car and grab any money or valuables.
According to the police, all three men have also violated UAE residency laws. During one of the operations, one of the men attempted to attack a police officer with a knife that was in his possession.
All stolen cash, valuables and victims’ personal identity documents, have been retrieved by the police.
Dr Bu Rasheed advised residents to take extra care after using an ATM, and to be discreet about any cash withdrawn. He also asked them to contact the authorities on noticing any suspicious activity around banks and ATMs.
