Security Alert: Scotland

The following alert has been received from Police Scotland:

“At about 0105hrs on Wednesday 10^th December 2014, at The Village Post Office, Main Street, Cumbernauld, a gas attack was carried out on the ATM.  The attack caused an explosion resulting in extensive damage to the premises.  A number of cassettes containing cash were stolen.  5-7 youths wearing hoodies were seen to make off in two vehicles.  Police forensic teams remain at the scene and a major investigation has commenced.”

As always, it is important that banking and retail staff with an ATM on site, remain vigilant.  Staff should call police if they note anything suspicious on or around the ATM.  This includes gas canisters left in proximity to ATMs, pipes of any description inserted into any part of the ATM, the smell of gas or any suspicious activity within the area.

The majority of explosive attacks happen in the early hours of the morning, so staff opening up or working on 24 hour shifts should be extra vigilant.  The level of damage caused by an ATM gas explosion can vary greatly.  In some incidents the damage has been contained within the ATM, while in others the ATM has been completely destroyed causing significant damage to structures housing the ATM and surrounding buildings.  The recommended initial cordon is 100metres, until declared safe by Fire & Rescue.  Hence staff should move away from the area immediately and contact Police & Fire via the ‘999’ system.

For further information on explosive attacks, including detection and counter measures, please read the ATMIA Best Practice.