When I used to work as a journalist for the videogame industry, we often wrote about robberies and break-in into shops or factories. We found it curious that thieves would also have fun with video games, just like the rest of us. Apparently thieves now are starting to find out about 3D printing, so beware: Dimension Alley in Berlin is among the first 3D print shops, that I know of, to have been burglarized.
As a matter of fact, I know that thieves stole from the Idea Factory store in Milan, as well, but, since the only 3D printer on their premises is a huge EOS Formiga P110, they “only” stole a few macs. At the Dimension Alley 3D Printing Shop & Cafè in Berlin; however, the burglars went in for the 3D printer and actually made out with an Ultimaker Original (and the cash from the register).
They also tried to get their hands on a Sharebot NG, but they were, apparently, caught in the process by someone approaching and gave it up, leaving the 3D printer dangling off the shelf. Even though the thieves were looking for new technology, the actual break-in was very un-technological: just an ol’ brick in the window.
I doubt these guys are smart enough to actually use the 3D printer for some “evil criminal purposes”. Judging by the very low technical level of the hit, if they ever thought about 3D printing a gun, they’d very likely be their own first victims. However Amin and Norma, Dimension Alley’s founders, now have to pick up the pieces and restart the shop, which is never nice when you are already going through all the challenges of getting an innovative start-up off the ground.
If you live in Berlin and know something about it, please tell Amin and Norma.
The thieves probably thought they could print a gun like they did on CSI:NY. Time to start making a way to fasten down that printer so it is harder to develop feet and walk away.