Residents of Larino, Italy, woke to chaos early on February 22, 2025, when yet another ATM was bombed using the notorious 'marmotta' technique, which has turned lurking criminals and incited fear among the populace.
According to local reports, the attack on the Unicredit ATM occurred at approximately 4:50 AM on Via Sturzo. Eyewitnesses recounted hearing two loud explosions, the first indicating the criminals’ failed attempt to inject explosives effectively, followed by the successful detonation of the device. The technique utilized involves deploying a metal device packed with explosives at the ATM, after drilling it open, allowing the attackers to escape with cash swiftly.
The local Carabinieri and firefighters were quick to arrive on the scene, prompted by the resounding blasts. Investigations were immediately launched to gather evidence from surveillance footage, with Carabinieri combing through videos from both the bank's cameras and private residences where citizens caught the upsetting events live.
Local authorities confirmed the robbers fled the scene with their ill-gotten gains, believed to be around 30,000 euros, thanks to the ATM being restocked for the upcoming weekend. Reports indicated they made their escape by car, identified initially as a black Audi, with some witnesses mentioning sightings of at least one additional vehicle, possibly a white Fiat Grande Punto.
This alarming incident marks the fifth ATM bombing spree targeting the region’s financial institutions within the past ten months. Previous incidents have occurred elsewhere in Basso Molise, including attacks at locations such as Sant’Elia, Montenero, and Portocannone. Each time, assailants have employed similar tactics during the night of Friday through Saturday when ATMs are most filled with cash.
"I banditi hanno fatto saltare in aria la postazione Atm della Unicredit," said ANSA, detailing the event. Such crimes seem to follow the criminals’ predictable Grand Theft Auto-style rituals, brimming with brazen audacity.
While local officials work tirelessly, questions loom large about the rising range of ATM bombings. With citizens feeling increasingly threatened, many are wondering what additional safeguards can be instigated to preserve peace. A local resident described the moment of the explosion: "The noise was terrifying. Some of us rushed to the windows fearing the worst." The reported experience encapsulates the growing anxiety felt among community members as they grapple with the threat of similar events repeating.
Authorities have initiated widespread roadblocks and increased patrols in response to the recent bombings. Major intersections and borders are now heavily monitored, ramping up security efforts. The Carabinieri captain overseeing the investigation, Christian Cosma Damiano Petruzzella, has stated they will pursue all leads available from the collected data and local testimony to identify the perpetrators.
Utilizing explosives has alarmingly become the go-to method for robbers eyeing ATMs across the region. "Il fischio che l’ordigno emette poco prima della deflagrazione ricorderebbe il verso del roditore," explained ANSA, referring to the odd naming of this technique, likening the sound of the explosive to the chirp of a marmot — something both ominous and disconcerting.
The events of the recent bombing serve not only as another frightening chapter for Larino but reflect broader trends of crime perpetrated against banking infrastructure across Italy. Community sentiment echoes the need for enhanced safety protocols. The widespread disruption incited by these crimes fuels pertinent community dialogue about personal safety and the culpability of local law enforcement.
Larino's latest bombing demonstrates how criminals remain undeterred by law enforcement, often exploiting tactical vulnerabilities. Observing prior trends, citizens hope government agencies are not only aware but capable of instituting preventative measures, protecting individuals from both financial and physical dangers.
With law enforcement promising thorough investigations, only time will tell how quickly they can bring these brazen criminals to justice. The battle appears to continue as authorities reassess and refine strategies to combat such aggressive tactics aimed at community havens.