Australian police have just dismantled an organized crime gang specializing in targeting crypto ATMs and collectible card shops, arresting 4 suspects and seizing approximately 50,000 AUD (equivalent to 31,800 USD) along with many dangerous weapons.
Targeting Crypto ATMs and Collectible Cards
This gang is accused of attacking 6 ATMs in areas such as Hoppers Crossing, Bentleigh, Brunswick, Werribee, and Vermont. They also broke into collectible card shops in Epping, Moonee Ponds, and Eumemmerring since mid-January.
According to Victoria Police, during searches in Reservoir, Coburg North, Greensborough, and South Morang, they discovered an "Aladdin's cave" filled with stolen collectible cards including Pokémon, Disney Lorcana, Yu-Gi-Oh, Magic the Gathering, Dragon Ball Z, AFL, and NBA, along with 5 firearms, ammunition, 100 stolen car keys, and a drug press.
Related to Middle Eastern Organized Crime
The investigation revealed that this gang is linked to Middle Eastern organized crime, specializing in hiring people to carry out thefts to avoid detection. Two main suspects face a series of serious charges:
A 37-year-old man in Reservoir has been charged with 14 counts of theft and possession of illegal weapons.
A 32-year-old man in Epping has been accused of commercial theft, car theft, and possession of methamphetamine.
The Crypto ATM Market is Growing in Australia
This case emerged as Australia became the third largest crypto ATM market in the world, with the number of machines increasing 17 times since 2022. However, illegal activities from crypto ATMs account for 1.2%, double the average of the entire crypto market (0.63%).
Warning from the Police
Inspector Patrick Watkinson warned: "Hiring others to do dirty work won't help you stay hidden for long." At the same time, he praised the collectible card community and industry partners for helping to detect and dismantle this gang.
Risk Warning
The cryptocurrency market and related products always carry high risks. Investors and users need to be vigilant and protect their assets against sophisticated tricks.