First he stalked her, then a man pushed the 27-year-old into the bushes and started choking her.

A 51-year-old Croatian national was arrested on a meadow near Trbošćica after attempting to rob an ATM with explosives, according to police reports. The suspect was apprehended during a failed attack in Senožeče, where he fled to a nearby field before being detained without resistance. Authorities have linked him to five attacks across the region, including incidents in Podgrad, Ilirska Bistrica, Dekani, Bertoka, and Senožeče. During these attempts, the suspect used improvised explosive devices made with military-grade explosives and a detonator. In one case, the security system of the ATM in Bertoka prevented an explosion, causing significant damage to property and equipment. The police investigation into the series of ATM robberies has uncovered a pattern of highly coordinated and dangerous offenses. According to Aljoša Špeh, head of the criminal investigation sector at the Koper Police Department, the suspect operated with extreme caution, acting alone and using rented vehicles to travel to Slovenia regularly. He had no prior criminal record in Croatia. The suspect is currently in custody and faces charges related to five major thefts, four instances of handling explosives, and three cases of creating public danger, totaling twelve criminal acts. If convicted, he could receive a prison sentence ranging from five to ten years. In addition to the current suspect, police are investigating another incident involving a 43-year-old Croatian national who was previously warned by authorities for similar offenses. This individual is suspected of carrying out attacks in Senožeče and Dekani, which were connected to the broader pattern of ATM robberies. Although the suspect was already under scrutiny, he remains at large and is not in custody. Špeh emphasized that this individual did not collaborate with the other suspect, indicating separate lines of inquiry within the ongoing investigation. Police are also examining an attack in Postojna, where unknown individuals used explosives to steal a substantial amount of cash. Špeh stated that investigators have gathered significant evidence that provides a solid foundation for identifying the perpetrators. The case highlights the increasing sophistication and danger posed by such crimes, with suspects employing both traditional and technological methods to commit offenses. Despite the progress in some investigations, two incidents remain unsolved. These include a break-in in May in Pobegi and an attack in January in Šalari. Both incidents involved the use of a technique known as the “black box,” where thieves connect a special computer to an ATM to force a payout. While police claim they have collected enough evidence to identify the perpetrators, formal charges have yet to be filed. Unofficial reports suggest the suspects might be foreign nationals, though one is believed to be Croatian. Authorities continue to urge residents to exercise caution, particularly during nighttime approaches to ATMs. Citizens are advised to immediately contact emergency services if they notice suspicious individuals, vehicles, or damage to equipment. They should maintain a safe distance and promptly notify the appropriate authorities. These measures aim to enhance community safety and support ongoing efforts to dismantle networks engaged in such criminal activities.