# Italian ATM bombing investigation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/italian-atm-bombing-investigation
> Updated: 2026-08-19T09:28:15.000Z. Sources: 40. Developments: 2.

Italian authorities, through the Carabinieri in the Foggia province and Cerignola area, have arrested seven individuals as part of ‘Operation Device’. The investigation targets a criminal group accused of conducting twelve systematic ATM bombings between January and September 2025.

The attacks occurred across the provinces of Chieti, Avellino, Campobasso, and Potenza. The group is alleged to have engaged in aggravated theft and the manufacture, possession, and detention of weapons or explosives, with an estimated total profit of approximately 220,000 euros. The investigation was initiated following an assault on a BPER Banca ATM in Gissi in July 2025.

## Claims

- The State Police arrested 10 women in connection with a series of thefts. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The women are accused of approximately 100 thefts committed in concert. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Some of the arrested individuals are minors. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The thefts targeted transit passengers at Malpensa Airport. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The suspects used crowded elevators and concealed their movements with bags or jackets to distract victims. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The investigation was coordinated by the Prosecutor's Office of Busto Arsizio and the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office of Milan. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Precautionary detention in prison was issued for all suspects. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The investigation relied heavily on the analysis of surveillance footage. (corroborated by 2 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-19: Italian authorities arrest seven in ATM bombing investigation

Seven people were arrested in Italy during ‘Operation Device’ for a series of 12 systematic ATM bombings across multiple provinces, resulting in an estimated 220,000 euros in profit.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-authorities-arrest-seven-in-atm-bombing-investigation

### 2026-08-19: Malpensa Airport theft ring: 10 women arrested for 100 thefts

Ten women, including minors, have been arrested for allegedly committing around 100 thefts targeting transit passengers at Malpensa Airport in Italy.

37 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/malpensa-airport-theft-ring-10-women-arrested

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Cite as: Italian ATM bombing investigation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/italian-atm-bombing-investigation