Sydney, 30 June, 2006: Banks are offering a reward of $50 000 for information which leads to the arrest and conviction of criminals who commit ATM robberies and ram raids.

The Australian Bankers’ Association (ABA) Reward Scheme has been extended to cover ATM robberies and ram raids. Previously, the scheme covered only bank robberies and the maximum reward paid was $10 000. Now the reward amount has been increased to $50 000.

David Bell, Chief Executive of the ABA, said: “The reason the reward has been significantly increased is that the criminals committing these crimes are becoming increasingly violent, targeting innocent people who happen to be in their way when the crime is being committed.”

“For example, in recent ATM ram raids, one security guard was assaulted and another was threatened with violence when one of the criminals smashed his car window.”

“In addition, the criminals have stolen cash and taken or damaged ATMs. The banking industry hopes that an offer of a reward might give the public extra incentive to come forward with valuable information.”

The scheme involves a reward payment from a bank or banks, to individuals who provide information to police about an offender’s identity and gives evidence in court leading to a conviction. The police make recommendations for payment under the ABA Reward Scheme and the rewards are paid by the bank, or banks, that have been robbed. The amount of the reward is based on the value of the information provided to police, up to a maximum of $50 000 for each payment.

There are a total of 8216 ATMs and cash machines in New South Wales. Of these, 3545 ATMs are owned by banks and there are 4671 cash machines owned by other financial institutions and private deployers. The reward applies only to information related to bank robberies and robberies on ATMs owned by banks.

In consultation with NSW police, ABA member banks have undertaken an extensive site risk assessment program and have been increasing security on their ATM fleet.

Anyone with information which may lead to the arrest of suspects is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

For further information:

Heather Wellard
Director, Public Relations
Phone: 02 8298 0411
Mobile: 0409 830 439

ENDS