The ATM cloning fraud case in Panchkula has been creating havoc since some time now. But it has now been found that the cloning case is not only limited to Chandigarh and Panchkula but has also spread to nearby places like Lalru, Zirakpur, Derabassi, Rajpura, Sirhind, Ambala and even Ludhiana.

The continued thefts in Panchkula and nearby areas are mainly due to lack of security in ATMs. Also, since CCTV cameras have been unable to identify the masked thieves, it has not been possible to nab them.

Police officials have said that in case of State Bank of India and State Bank of Patiala customers, the thieves have mostly withdrawn around Rs 40,000 from the accounts targetted.

There have been more than 30 people who have lost money in this cloning theft.

While police officials are also on alert, customers should also take measures to prevent their cards from getting cloned.