The FBI has issued a stern warning about a disturbing rise in “bank jugging,” a robbery tactic targeting unsuspecting bank customers.
This method involves criminals staking out banks and ATMs, watching for individuals who withdraw large sums of cash. Once a target is identified, they are followed, and the perpetrators seize the opportunity to steal the money, often through violence or intimidation.
This alarming trend has seen a significant uptick in recent months, with incidents reported across various states.
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The FBI’s Baltimore field office alone received 21 jugging crime reports in the first week of July, predominantly in Prince George’s and Anne Arundel counties in Maryland.
Law enforcement officials are urging bank customers to be vigilant and take precautions to avoid becoming victims.
They recommend being aware of surroundings when withdrawing money, concealing cash discreetly, and varying routines to avoid predictability. If anyone suspects they are being followed after leaving a bank, they should immediately drive to a safe location, such as a police station, and report the incident.
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The FBI is actively working with local law enforcement agencies to investigate and combat this escalating crime wave. They are also collaborating with banks to enhance security measures and educate customers on how to protect themselves.
In a recent incident, a Maryland chase involving jugging suspects ended tragically in a fiery fatal crash in Washington D.C., Fox 5 reported.
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