ATM Ram-Raid Gang Jailed for Over 30 Years
A ruthless gang of five men have been locked up for more than three decades combined for a spree of ATM ram raids and violent robbery across Surrey, Sussex, and Hampshire. Between July and November 2018, Jason Mobey, Jimmy Shea, Les Keet, Eric Summerfield, and Melvyn Beech caused chaos, stealing over £500,000 and leaving nearly £900,000 in damage.
Heavy Machinery and Violent Tactics
The gang didn’t mess about. Using stolen heavy machinery, they smashed into ATMs under the cover of darkness, targeting rural farms and new housing developments. Getaway vehicles were also pinched nearby and often torched afterwards to destroy evidence.
Mobey, Keet, Summerfield, and Beech took it up a notch by violently raiding a Surrey home to rob the occupant.
Massive Police Operation Brings Justice
Surrey and Sussex Police’s Serious Organised Crime Unit led a lengthy investigation. Officers gathered CCTV footage, forensic evidence, and tips from the public. Their hard graft paid off when 70 officers from three forces swooped on 20 December 2018 to carry out multiple dawn raids.
They seized clothing, stolen vehicles, and cutting tools linking the gang to the crimes. All five men pleaded guilty in April 2019.
“The sentences handed down show the seriousness of these crimes,” said Detective Superintendent Karen Mizzi. “This gang was relentless, but strong teamwork and information-sharing helped us catch them.”
Community Impact and Aftermath
The thefts wrecked businesses, led to job losses, and forced locals to travel far for cash. Waverley Borough Commander Inspector Gary Smith slammed the gang’s “selfish actions” and thanked the public and police for their role in bringing the criminals down.
A Cardtronics spokesperson highlighted the damaging impact: “These attacks aren’t victimless crimes—shops were destroyed and some never reopened. The cost hit our company and taxpayers alike.”
Sentences and Warnings
- Jason Mobey, 40: 10 years 8 months
- Les Keet, 29: 8 years
- Jimmy Shea, 24: 6 years
- Eric Summerfield, 63: 3 years 4 months
- Melvyn Beech, 47: 3 years 4 months
Mobey, Shea, and Keet also face a 5-year Serious Crime Prevention Order.
Police Urge Public Vigilance
Libby Clark from CPS said: “These were expertly planned raids causing massive damage—not just financial but to residents’ safety. The evidence was overwhelming.”
Police urge anyone spotting suspicious vehicles or activity, or with info on the gang, to call 101 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Owners of plant machinery are warned to secure their equipment—keep it out of sight, block access, and store immobiliser codes safely.
