Police intercept ATM explosion in Vlaardingen; One suspect arrested, second flees

Two people carried out an ATM explosion at a cash machine on Reigerlaan in Vlaardingen on the night from Friday to Saturday. Police caught the suspects in the act, fired warning shots, and arrested one of them, authorities said. The second suspect fled on a scooter and remains at large.

Police said officers intervened during the bombing and found the two suspects at the scene. No injuries were reported.

The explosion caused significant damage to the cash machine and the surrounding area. Nearby homes were evacuated as a precaution due to blast damage and possible safety risks.

The Vlaardingen case comes amid what Dutch media describe as a renewed rise in cash machine bombings. According to De Telegraaf, there were only a few incidents last year, but the number has increased again after Germany introduced stricter measures against the crime. Police figures cited say there have been 20 cash machine bombings this year, with the Vlaardingen incident being the latest.