ATM thief nabbed

A suspected thief preying on automated teller machines (ATMs) in Muntinlupa City was arrested Tuesday night, after he was spotted by bank security guards.

The suspect was identified as Roberto Fedilicio, 31, jobless, of Barangay Maahas, Los Baños, Laguna.

Four pieces of plastic cards, used to block the ATM machines, were recovered from the suspect, said case investigator, Police Officer 2 Felix Paor.

One plastic card was recovered jammed in the dispenser, Paor added.

The suspect was arrested at around 8 p.m. at the Banco de Oro branch in Alabang.

Paor said two bank customers have complained to management that they withdrew money but were not able to get the cash.

However, their printed receipt showed that the money had been deducted from their accounts.

Tuesday night, security guard Roberto de Cleto noticed the suspicious behavior of Fedilicio. De Cleto and security officer Jose Lambrinto immediately apprehended the suspect. When frisked, they discovered the plastic cards.

Paor said the suspect would jam the ATM machine with the plastic cards.Fedilicio would allegedly get the cash after frustrated customers leave without their money. The plastic cards were the size of the slot where the money is dispensed, said Paor.

Fedilicio faces charges of theft and is now detained. – Nikko Dizon