Two Illawarra men will face court today after being charged by detectives investigating an attempt to blow up an ATM to access cash. , NSW Police say
About 2.20am on Tuesday 18 September 2018, police and firefighters were called to a shopping centre on College Avenue, Shellharbour, following reports of an ATM on fire.
Witnesses reported seeing two men running from the area around the time the fire was noticed.
After the blaze was extinguished, a crime scene was established by local police and examined by specialist forensic officers. The ATM had not been accessed.
Initial inquiries revealed the fire was caused by a small explosion, which is alleged to be an attempt to open the ATM and access the cash.
Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Robbery and Serious Crime Squad established Strike Force Marom, to investigate the incident.
Following extensive investigations, strike force detectives executed two search warrants at homes at Barrack Heights and Koonawarra, about 6.40am yesterday (Thursday 29 November 2018).
During the searches, investigators seized prohibited weapons, five cannabis plants growing in a small hydroponic set-up, other prohibited drugs, and other items relevant to the investigation.
Two men were arrested during the operation and taken to Lake Illawarra Police Station.
The 39-year-old Barrack Heights man was charged with attempt aggravated break, enter in company with intent to steal; destroy/damage property in company use fire, two counts of ongoing supply prohibited drugs, and four counts of possess prohibited weapons.
The 57-year-old Koonawarra man was charged with attempt aggravated break, enter in company with intent to steal; destroy/damage property in company use fire, and enhanced indoor cultivation of prohibited plant for commercial purpose.
Both men were refused bail to appear at Wollongong Local Court today (Friday 30 November 2018).
