Bushrangers blast remote ATMs

Local residents said they heard loud noises, including the sound of a vehicle leaving town.

Acting Senior Sergeant of Longreach Police, Al McPhee, said the incident could be related to another similar offence where multiple people stole an ATM from the Jericho Post Office on August 22.

“Items such as an ATM are an easy target in small towns like Alpha, especially during the night when it can be quiet,” Senior Sergeant McPhee said.

“It is not out of the question that the theft in Jericho is related to this one.”

Barcaldine Regional Council Mayor, Sean Dillon, commented on both offences.

“I am disgruntled with the low life scum that once again challenges our community’s access to cash,” Cr Dillon said. “Small businesses in our digitally-challenged communities have limited EFTPOS related capacity, as do our community events.

“As we attempt to recover social interactions post-Covid the need for cash at these community events will increase, placing yet another burden on the shoulders of small businesses.

“For people to target their only point of access of cash highlights the disregard to which the criminals target.”

Anyone with information is being urged to contact local Police on 4652 5200 or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.