State records 34 cases of machine vandalism
SHILLONG: The State has witnessed 34 cases of ATM thefts in the past five years in which more than Rs 1 crore has been lost.
The exact amount lost in ATM vandalisation till August this year is Rs 1,83,60,400. Government data shows that in East and West Khasi Hills, Rs 43,02,900 and Rs 9,85,300 was stolen, respectively. In Ri Bhoi and East Jaintia Hills, the amounts stand at Rs 45,04,500 and Rs 11 lakh, respectively.
The official documents of the State Government say round-the-clock mobile and foot patrols keep strict vigil on ATMs. In Shillong and Tura, CCTV surveillance cameras at 30 and 14 locations, respectively, have been installed. Regular meetings with RBI and local authorities are also held.
According to the Government, District police have also instructed bank officials to provide 24×7 security guards for ATM machines. All officers in-charge have been directed to be alert.
Also, ATMs are being installed by grouting, a method in which the base of the machine is secured more into the ground through a metal frame and concretizing it, to make them less vulnerable to theft.