Public advised to be aware of ‘jugging’

GARDAÍ are advising those handling large amounts of cash this Christmas to be aware of a type of theft known as ‘Jugging’.
Bank ‘Jugging’ is a theft method where customers of financial institutions are watched by persons who wait for them to come out of those premises with a bank bag, coin box or bank envelope that looks like they may have a large amount of cash.
The customer may then be followed with the thief looking for an opportunity to steal the cash, maybe by breaking into their car or a distraction theft from the victim directly.
If you are carrying out cash banking transactions gardaí urge that you take the following general advice:
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially if something seems strange as you enter the bank.
• Conceal your bank deposit bags, coin boxes or envelopes as you enter and leave the bank.
• Take your bank bag or envelope with you into your next destination. Don’t hide it in your vehicle.
• Always vary your routes and times for cash drops and collections.
• Consider using electronic funds transfer rather than depositing or withdrawing cash.