NCB may permanently close some ABMs

National Commercial Bank (NCB) yesterday announced that it has made several operational changes to its automated banking machine (ABM) network in an effort to ensure the safety of customers, employees and services providers.

The move comes on the heels of several high-profile heists carried out by gunmen islandwide, resulting in the death and injuries of a number security guards who were caught up in the attacks.

"NCB will be continuously reviewing its ABM network and making changes on a case-by-case basis; these changes may include the temporary closure of some of its 24/7 machines at nights and/or permanent closure of locations. ABMs that were previously subject to vandalism or theft have not been replaced," said the financial institution in a media release.

The recent changes, NCB disclosed, "were made in consultations on Saturday, March 25, 2023, with service providers, law enforcement, and other authorities".

NCB's head of Payment Services and Digital Channels, Danielle Cameron, said she understood that the changes may have a negative impact on customers.

"We understand the inconvenience these changes may cause our customers, but we must prioritise their safety and security above all else," Cameron said.