Three Suspected ATM Explosion Gang Members Face Court in Vienna

The Vienna Regional Court is currently hearing a case involving three individuals suspected of participating in a criminal group specializing in ATM explosions. Authorities believe the accused, aged 24, 33, and 36, and residing in the Netherlands, were involved in four separate incidents targeting cash machines in Austria.

One of the main incidents under investigation occurred on April 6, 2025, when three ATMs in the foyer of a bank branch on Vorgartenstraße in Vienna's Leopoldstadt district were destroyed using remotely detonated explosives. The operation, allegedly conducted with the assistance of an unidentified accomplice, resulted in the theft of approximately 85,000 euros. However, due to the rapid response of police officers, the perpetrators were forced to abandon a further 550,000 euros at the scene. During the ensuing escape, the youngest accused was shot by law enforcement, while the others initially managed to flee abroad.

Subsequent investigations led to the identification and apprehension of two suspects in the Netherlands. They were extradited to Austria in August and have since been held in pre-trial detention at the Josefstadt correctional facility in Vienna.

The trial addresses charges of aggravated burglary, intentional endangerment through explosives, and serious property damage. In addition to the April incident, the court is examining three further cases allegedly linked to the group. One of the accused is believed to have joined four other, separately prosecuted individuals in an attack on January 21, 2024. During this event, three ATMs were blown open in a bank at Wohnpark Alterlaa in Vienna-Liesing, yielding nearly 90,000 euros in stolen cash.

Additional attempted thefts allegedly occurred on February 12 and 15, 2024. According to prosecutors, two members of the group, along with another unidentified accomplice, targeted ATMs at Wienerberg in Vienna-Favoriten and in Salzburg. The attempt in Vienna failed when the explosives did not detonate, but in Salzburg, the suspects reportedly forced open an ATM using a crowbar before placing and remotely detonating an explosive device. This action resulted in a theft of approximately 108,000 euros.

Authorities highlight the professional and organized nature of the group, noting the use of remote detonation methods and coordinated movements across international borders. All three accused remain in custody as the trial continues.