Harboe: ATM machine robberies are not significant "when put in proportion"

To see international photos, click here

SANTIAGO.- Referring to the multiple cases of ATM machine robberies that have been reported recently, Undersecretary of Interior Felipe Harboe has stated that it is not necessary to make a big deal about what has occurred. "Nowadays in Chile there are 6 thousand 548 automatic cash dispensers, just over 100 of which have been attempted to be stolen. So, although it makes an impact, when put in proportion, it is not significant".

During an interview with TVN, Harboe added that there has indeed been an alarming increase in the number of attempted thefts of ATM machines which, according to him, can be attributed to a new niche that has developed among criminals looking for new ways to commit robberies.

Harboe clarified that the most important aspect is that there is now a team working on the matter. "We held an immediate meeting with the Association of Banks and Financial Entities, which is now beginning to implement security measures. Police and the Bureau of Investigations are also sharing information and we have involved the Public Ministry so that we can more effectively prosecute these types of criminals", he stated.