Criminals using ‘bank jugging’ to steal from unsuspecting victims

Gardai have warned the public to be cautious outside banks as criminals have been using “bank jugging” to steal cash.

Bank jugging involves thieves waiting outside financial institutions and watching customers going in and out. These criminals then target anybody who comes out with a bank bag, coin box, or bank envelope that looks like it may have a large sum of cash in it.

The offender then follows the customer and either steals their money by taking it by force or breaking into their car. Gardai have issued the following tips on how to protect yourself from bank jugging:

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• Be aware of your surroundings, especially if something seems strange as you enter or leave the bank.

• Conceal your bank deposit bags, coin boxes or envelopes as you enter and leave the bank.

• Take your bank bag or envelope with you into your next destination. Don’t hide it in your vehicle.

• Always vary your routes and times of cash drops and collections.

• Consider using electronic funds transfer rather than depositing or withdrawing cash.

• If you feel like you are being followed, call 999 and drive to a Garda station.

• Please be vigilant and avoid withdrawing unnecessary sums of cash from financial institutions.

A spokesperson for the gardai said: “It is easy to get distracted or be in a hurry, but if you stay aware of your surroundings and report any unusual activity you can prevent being a victim of being ‘jugged’.”

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