# ATM explosions and robbery attempts in Italy

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/atm-explosions-and-robbery-attempts-in-italy
> Updated: 2026-09-05T11:05:12.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 3.

A series of attempted or successful ATM robberies involving explosives has been reported in Italy.

In Melilli, Sicily, criminals attempted to use a “marmotta” technique—placing an improvised explosive device in a UniCredit ATM slot—to force it open. The heist failed, and perpetrators reportedly fired gunshots during their escape. Authorities evacuated nearby residents while bomb disposal specialists safely detonated the abandoned device in a quarry.

In Colletorto, Molise, an ATM at the Banca di Credito Cooperativa del Molise was targeted by two explosions around 3:20 AM. This incident caused significant structural damage and shattered windows on the second floor of the building. Mayor Cosimo Mele expressed concern regarding the potential long-term loss of banking services, while Bank President Pasquale Abiuso noted that the structural damage is “inestimable.” Carabinieri are investigating the stolen funds and the identity of those responsible.

On the night of September 5-6, a similar attempt occurred in Rozzano on via Lombardia. Perpetrators utilized the “marmotta” technique, using a device filled with gunpowder to force an ATM open. While the explosion caused debris and damage to the bank’s exterior and entrance, the robbery was unsuccessful as criminals could not access the cash. Local Carabinieri are reviewing surveillance footage to identify the suspects and any vehicles used during the escape.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-05: Rozzano: Failed ATM robbery attempt using explosives

An attempted ATM robbery in Rozzano, Italy, using explosives failed after criminals were unable to access the cash despite a powerful blast that alarmed local residents.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rozzano-failed-atm-robbery-attempt-using-explosives

### 2026-08-27: Colletorto ATM targeted in explosion

Criminals used explosives to attack a Banca di Credito Cooperativa del Molise ATM in Colletorto, causing significant structural damage and disrupting local banking services.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/colletorto-atm-targeted-in-explosion

### 2026-08-22: Melilli: Failed attempt to blow up UniCredit ATM

Criminals failed in an attempt to blow up a UniCredit ATM in Melilli, Sicily, using an improvised explosive. Residents were evacuated during the incident, and an investigation is ongoing.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/melilli-failed-attempt-to-blow-up-unicredit-atm

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Cite as: ATM explosions and robbery attempts in Italy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/atm-explosions-and-robbery-attempts-in-italy