Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Manitoba are actively searching for multiple suspects following a bold overnight theft that saw an entire ATM machine stolen from a motel in Lorette.
The Overnight Heist
The incident occurred during the early morning hours at a motel located in the rural community of Lorette, approximately 30 kilometres southeast of Winnipeg. According to RCMP investigators, suspects used a truck to forcibly remove the automated teller machine from its moorings inside the motel premises.
Surveillance camera footage captured the alleged vehicle involved in the theft, which police have released to the public in hopes of generating leads. The images show a truck that appears to have been used in the commission of the crime, though RCMP have not disclosed the specific make or model at this time.
Ongoing Investigation
Multiple investigative units are working on the case, including forensic teams who processed the crime scene for evidence. Police are examining the surveillance footage frame by frame and conducting door-to-door inquiries in the surrounding area.
"We are following several promising leads and encourage anyone with information to come forward," stated an RCMP spokesperson during a brief update to media. The investigation remains active with officers pursuing all angles to identify and locate the individuals responsible.
Community Impact and Response
The theft has left motel guests and staff without convenient cash access, creating significant inconvenience for travelers and local residents who regularly used the machine. Business owners in the area have expressed concern about the brazen nature of the crime.
Local authorities are reminding business owners to review their security measures, particularly regarding the placement and anchoring of ATM machines. Police recommend enhanced lighting, surveillance coverage, and physical security measures to deter similar incidents.
RCMP continue to ask anyone with information about the theft or the suspects involved to contact their local detachment or Crime Stoppers anonymously. The investigation timeline and potential charges remain undetermined as the search for answers continues.
