Two bandits have been using torches to burn through ATMs and steal hundreds of thousands of dollars since July 2011.

According to Halton police, the thieves have made off with nearly $700,000 and have hit 50 machines, mostly in empty places such as arenas, bingo halls and movie theatres.

Security camera footage of the thieves depicts their routine.

In the videos, two men dressed in black swiftly approach the ATMs. Using an oxy-acetelyne torch that they carry in a backpack, they burn the machine and take the cash. The entire routine takes around 60 seconds.

The pair has hit machines across a large swath of the province, stretching from Niagara Falls to Ottawa. Police say they usually strike between Thursdays and Sundays and typically hit several machines in a day.

A third man with a limp has sometimes been seen with the pair near crime scenes in Richmond Hill and Mississauga. He is described by police as a “person of interest.” Police say he is white, in his 40s or 50s, with a medium build and greying hair.

Police describe the first suspect as white, stocky, 6’0” and weighing around 225 lbs. The second suspect is described as white, slim, 5’10” and about 180 lbs.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to contact Halton police at 905-825-4777 ext. 2335. A $25,000 reward is being offered for anyone who helps catch the thieves.