Irish Minister Proposes Higher ATM Rates To Reduce Hostage Taking in “Tiger Raid”

Problem: Irish Banks are experiencing a rash of “tiger raids,” where customers are taken hostage to force another spouse to withdraw large amounts of money. Solution? More law enforcement? More surveillance? More training for bank officials? No, Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern wants to increase ATM fees.

The proposal came after a bank manager’s wife was taken hostage to force the husband to withdraw over €300,000. Ahern views the case as highlighting the problem of too much cash in circulation in Ireland — a level that would be reduced by higher fees for ATM transactions.

That should show those kidnappers, bank robbers, and killers — future withdrawals at their ATMs will cost a euro more. Of course, the higher costs could drive them to . . . well . . . more Tiger raids.

Next, higher toll road fees to curb car thefts.

Source: Irish Times

Jonathan Turley