Halton police offer $25K reward for tips in blowtorch ATM robberies

Halton police are offering a $25,000 reward for tips that help them nab bandits wanted for a series of brazen blowtorch ATM robberies.

The suspects are responsible for more than 50 bank machine robberies since July 15th. Police describe the group as “professional and organized” that can pull off a heist within 60 seconds.

The suspects use an oxy-acetylene torch and a crowbar to crack open the cash machines and then take off in a getaway vehicle, usually a newer-model minivan or SUV.

Police say the group usually targets ATMs at bingo halls, flea markets, arenas, retail and grocery stores over a wide area, including the GTA, Niagara, Waterloo, Ottawa and as far as Quebec.

Twelve robberies happened in Burlington and Oakville, with a total loss of $100,000. The robbers have so far stolen $700,000, police say.

Two of the suspects are described as:

  • Male, white, stocky build, six feet tall, 225 pounds
  • Male, white, slim build, five feet, ten inches tall, 180 pounds

Authorities released video of the bandits this week.

Police also announced the $25,000 reward for tips that lead to a conviction in the case. The reward expires Nov. 5, 2013.

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