Forklifts are the new weapon of choice for bandits who prefer the cover of darkness to daytime bank heists.

Last Monday, Regions Bank, in Harris County, Texas, was burgled at about 3am, Houston Chronicle reported.

FBI authorities said a burglary ring had been targeting automated teller machines (ATMs) near construction sites or equipment rental businesses in Harris County.

"At least one member of the ring has knowledge on how to operate heavy equipment," FBI spokesperson Shauna Dunlap said.

Surveillance video showed a forklift striking the ATM several times before it broke from its concrete foundation.

The burglaries have prompted Bank of America and Wells Fargo to offer a USD50,000 reward for information leading to the ring's arrest. Crime Stoppers would offer a USD5,000 reward, Dunlap said.