Anger At Antrim Cash Machine Theft

The criminals who ripped an ATM machine from a supermarket in Antrim have been condemned by local politicians.

A double cash machine unit was stolen from Tesco in Antrim town early on Friday morning, 06 December.

The unit has since been recovered and police are investigating. It is unclear whether any money was found when the machine was discovered just a few miles away from the Castle Way premises.

Local UUP Alderman and Westminster candidate Danny Kinahan hit out at those behind the attack and condemned the inconvenience caused for local people.

He said: "I note that a digger was used to prise the cash machines from the wall, and I wholeheartedly support the police appeal to owners of heavy plant machinery to ensure they do everything possible to secure and immobilise equipment to make it as difficult as possible for criminals to use it in these type of attacks.

"I urge the public to give the police every possible assistance to help them catch those responsible by reporting any suspicious activity, and the courts need to impose sentences which adequately punish those responsible and keep them out of circulation for as long as possible, to protect the public and local businesses."

Meanwhile, Alliance Cllr for the town Neil Kelly expressed his anger and disgust.

Cllr Kelly said: "It beggars belief what criminals will do next. I like many others use those cash machines regularly. We have lost a few machines in the town centre at the banks and the machines at Tesco are convenient as there is available parking there.

"The loss of these machines, particularly at this time of year, will have a negative impact on many in our town."

Cllr Kelly reiterated the police appeal for information.

Anyone with details relevant to the Antrim incident is urged to call 101 and quote reference number 126 of 06/12/19.

Details can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.



(JG/CM)