M'sian man smashes 12 ATM screens in KL without stealing anything, police launches manhunt

Police have launched a manhunt for a suspect believed to be behind a string of vandalism attacks targeting automated teller machines (ATMs) at several bank branches in Jinjang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with losses estimated at RM64,000 (S$20,670).

Authorities said at least 12 ATM screens have been damaged so far, prompting multiple police reports and a special operation to track down the individual responsible.

Multiple bank branches affected

Sentul police chief Assistant Commissioner Basri Sagoni said the first report was lodged on Feb. 16, after a 38-year-old ATM technician discovered that four screens had been cracked during routine maintenance at a bank branch in Jinjang Selatan, Kuala Lumpur.

The initial damage was estimated at around RM4,000 (S$1,300), police said, according to the New Straits Times.

Further reports were received the following day, between 12:24pm and 10:16pm, involving similar acts of vandalism at other locations.

Two additional cases occurred again at Maybank Jinjang Selatan, while one case each was reported at RHB Bank Jinjang Utara and Public Bank Jinjang Utara.

Losses from these later incidents were estimated at approximately RM60,000 (S$19,500), bringing the total to RM64,000 (S$20,670).

Suspect caught on CCTV

Investigators believe the attacks were deliberate acts of vandalism rather than attempted theft.

Basri said no elements of robbery or other criminal motives have been detected at this stage.

CCTV footage reviewed by police shows the suspect as a fair-skinned man of medium build, approximately 165 centimetres tall.

He was reportedly wearing a grey short-sleeved shirt, long trousers, black slippers and a blue helmet, and was riding a blue Honda Wave motorcycle, reported Free Malaysia Today.

The registration number has yet to be identified.

Police also said the suspect’s method involved entering the ATM lobby or bank premises, smashing the machine screens with an object believed to be a stone, and then fleeing immediately afterwards.

Authorities described the incidents as swift attacks that caused significant damage to bank property.

Investigation under Penal Code

All cases are being investigated under Section 427 of the Penal Code, which covers mischief causing damage or loss to property.

Basri said police have launched a special operation in Jinjang to locate and apprehend the suspect.

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