(St. John’s, NL), August 9, 2023 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) is investigating after a report of ‘cash trapping’ in Mount Pearl.

On Monday, August 7, 2023, at approximately 4 p.m., RNC Operational Patrol Services (OPS) responded to a bank on Old Placentia Road in Mount Pearl in relation to suspicious activity involving a drive-thru ATM terminal. Responding officers were informed that individuals were attempting to withdraw cash from the terminal, but the terminal was not issuing the requested funds. Officers determined that it had been ongoing since Friday (August 4).

An investigation determined that a steel bar had been placed over the ATM dispensary slot preventing money from being accessed. This practice of ‘cash-trapping’, believed to be a first in Newfoundland and Labrador, leads bank clients to believe the machine is broken or out of money. Those responsible wait for the bank clients to depart, approach the ATM and take the cash from behind the steel bar.

The RNC is asking anyone who observes or experiences suspicious activity while using an ATM, to inform the ATM operator immediately.

The RNC Economic Crime Unit (ECU) is investigating and asking anyone with information or video footage to assist investigators to contact the RNC at 709-729-8000 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

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 File # 2023-45163

Cst. James. C. Cadigan  #775
Media Relations & Public Communication
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca