Detectives in Belfast are investigating a brazen attempt to steal an ATM from the Royal Victoria Children's Hospital in the early hours of Saturday, 7 February.

According to reports, two men dressed as workmen entered the hospital premises at approximately 3.15am. The pair loaded the cash machine onto a trolley and attempted to transport it to a vehicle waiting outside. However, the suspects were forced to flee the scene empty-handed, leaving the ATM intact and on-site.

Police officers attended the hospital shortly after the incident was reported and conducted extensive searches of the surrounding area, but the suspects were not located. Detective Sergeant Robson said: "Officers attended and searches were carried out but unfortunately we were unable to locate the suspects. I am appealing to anyone who was in the area of the Children's Hospital between 3am & 4.15am and who may have mobile or dash-cam footage which could assist with our enquiries, to call us on 101, quoting reference number 211 07/02/26."

He added: "I also want to urge people to continue to be vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity they see immediately to police."

The incident has caused significant concern given its location within a healthcare facility for children. Investigators are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have observed suspicious vehicles or individuals in the vicinity during the specified timeframe.

Members of the public can provide information anonymously by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Alternatively, reports can be submitted through the non-emergency reporting form on the PSNI website at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.