Cash Machines Stolen From Antrim Tesco

Police have recovered a double ATM machine that was ripped from the wall of a supermarket in Antrim.

The theft took place overnight in the town's Castle Way area.

Officers responded to the incident shortly after 3am on Friday morning, 06 December, to discover a digger on fire and the unit housing two machines stolen.

Approximately half an hour later, the cash dispensers were recovered just a few miles away in the Birch Hill Road area. It is unclear if the money from the machines was also recovered.

Detective Inspector Richard Thornton said: "The public is waking up to the news today that criminals have targeted a community where many rely on this vital resource, and I understand the concern of the public and the business community, and the impact the crime will have on the community and the business itself.

"Our investigation is at an early stage and we are working to establish if this incident is linked to others of a similar nature."

Police are appealing to the public for information which may assist their investigation and are reminding people to remain vigilant in the face of the growing trend of ATM thefts.

Detective Inspector Thornton added: "I want to take this opportunity to appeal to owners of heavy plant machinery to ensure they do everything possible to secure and immobilise equipment. If the diggers cannot be stolen, these attacks cannot take place.

"It is unusual to see a digger out on the roads in the evening or the middle of the night, so if you see a digger on the road at these times and think something isn't quite right, please contact us on the non-emergency number 101 and we can check this out.

"Also, if you see people or vehicles loitering in areas close to ATMs, particularly as some shops may be closed, or hear machinery late at night or in the early hours call us."

Anyone who suspects a crime is in progress is advised to dial 999.

In relation to this morning's incident, information can be provided by calling 101 and quoting reference number 126 of 06/12/19.

Details can also be provided in confidence by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.



(JG/CM)