Garda warning over 'bank Jugging'

Gardai are warning people to be aware of the latest scam of “Bank Jugging” which involves watching customers entering and leaving banks.

Bank Jugging occurs when a thief parks outside of a bank and watches patiently as customers go in and out.

The suspect targets anyone who comes out with a bank bag, coin box or bank envelope that looks like they may have a large amount of cash. They then follow the customer and break into their car or steal from the victim directly.

"We have had a number of reported cases in Meath over the past year," reports the Meath Crime Prevention Page.

The crime usually occurs when the victim stops after leaving the bank. When the customer attempts to leave their vehicle they are robbed.

Bank Juggers often park where they have clear visibility of the front door or the ATM. If the line of visibility is obscured, they will change parking spots.

The public are urged to be aware of vehicles that park, but whose occupants fail to enter the bank. Do not ignore it, let security staff know or call the Gardaí.

The advice is....

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