Key Takeaways
- Australian police arrested four men for Bitcoin ATM and card store thefts.
- Six Bitcoin ATMs and AU$50,000 worth of collectible cards were stolen.
- Police recovered firearms, stolen car keys, and other illicit goods.
Australian police have dismantled an organized crime syndicate responsible for targeting Bitcoin ATMs and collectible card stores in multiple Melbourne suburbs.
The Victoria Police North West Metro Regional Crime Squad arrested four suspects and seized a significant stash of stolen items.
Theft details
Since mid-January, the gang allegedly stole six Bitcoin ATMs from businesses in Hoppers Crossing, Bentleigh, Brunswick, Werribee, and Vermont.
These machines contained both digital assets and cash, making them lucrative targets.
Additionally, the thieves looted collectible card stores in Epping, Moonee Ponds, and Eumemmerring, stealing trading cards worth approximately AU$50,000 ($31,800 USD).
Seized items
Police search warrants at properties in Reservoir, Coburg North, Greensborough, and South Morang uncovered five stolen firearms, around 100 stolen car keys, ammunition, a pill press, and stolen power tools.
Detective Inspector Patrick Watkinson described the findings as an “Aladdin’s cave” of stolen goods.
Charges and arrests
A 37-year-old man from Reservoir faces 14 burglary charges, firearm possession, and handling stolen goods, with a court date set for May 2.
A 32-year-old man from Epping is charged with multiple burglaries, vehicle theft, and drug offenses, appearing in court on February 21.
Two other suspects were released pending further investigation.
Market context
With over 1,461 Bitcoin ATMs, Australia is now the third-largest market globally.
However, Bitcoin ATM-related crimes are rising, with scams increasing from $12 million in 2020 to $65 million.
Authorities continue investigating potential ties to larger syndicates.
