Police to conduct survey of security measures at ATMs

The City police have decided to conduct a detailed survey of ATM kiosks across the City to verify whether banks have implemented the three security measures suggested by them – appointment of a security guard, installation of closed-circuit television cameras and burglar alarms.

The police action came in the wake of an armed intruder attacking a woman at an ATM kiosk in November last year.

Police Commissioner Raghavendra Auradkar had issued an order on November 28 fixing a 45-day deadline under Section 144 clause (5) of the Criminal Procedure Code to implement the three security measures. The deadline expired on Saturday.

“The deadline concluded on Saturday and we have decided to conduct a survey in this regard,” Additional Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Kamal Pant told Deccan Herald.

The survey would ascertain whether or not banks have complied with the security guidelines. ATMs of banks which have not taken the necessary security steps would be shut, he said.

The area-wise survey will begin on Sunday. Authorities concerned will be booked under Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code, for non-compliance, a senior police officer. Most banks have complied with the police suggestion, but around 20 per cent of them still lack security measures.

 Such ATMs are located in interior areas and on the City outskirts. The police would close down such ATMs and the action would affect local residents, the officer added.