Detectives investigating a series of thefts from ATMs in Bournemouth suspected of being tampered with are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

It was reported that between Friday 10 January and Sunday 19 January 2025 victims had their cards retained by ATMs in Wimborne Road, Christchurch Road, Queens Road and Castle Lane West, and fraudulent transactions subsequently took place shortly afterwards.

It was further reported by victims that camera equipment and chunky facia devices had been fitted around the card slots of the ATMs.

Detective Constable Christian Bryant, of BCP CID, said: “An investigation has been launched into these incidents as we look to find those responsible and hold them to account for their actions.

“In the meantime, I would urge members of the public to remain vigilant when withdrawing their money from cash dispensing machines by checking them first for any suspicious devices which may be attached to them, as well as shielding their personal identification numbers (PIN) from view.

“I would also urge anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity around ATMs to please report it in the first instance to the proprietor of the machine so appropriate action can be taken to safeguard victims’ money from potential fraudulent theft or scams.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250009709. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.