Newtownabbey: van staff and member of the public threatened by armed gang during attempted cash heist at filling station
Staff and a member of the public endured a “terrifying ordeal” when an armed gang made an unsuccessful attempt to rob a cash in transit van at a Newtownabbey filling station on Wednesday (November 26).
Detectives are appealing for information following the morning incident at the Mallusk Road premises.
Detective Inspector Sweeney said: "We received a report that four men dressed in balaclavas and wearing dark clothing had attempted to seize cash from security staff driving a cash in transit van and attending an ATM at a filling station on Mallusk Road at around 8am.
“Two of the men threatened the security staff with firearms. The staff were held at gunpoint for almost ten minutes before the suspects, realising that they would not be able to bypass stringent security measures, left empty-handed."
The suspects, police added, were driving a dark-coloured vehicle and made off in the direction of Glengormley.
Detective Inspector Sweeney continued: “The robbery occurred during morning rush hour, when many people would be stopping at the filling station as they made their way to work or took their children to school, and as such we could have been looking at much more serious consequences today.
"Although we are thankful that no-one sustained physical injury, this was a terrifying ordeal for the security staff and a member of the public who was also threatened.
“We are asking anyone with information or who may be able to help with our investigation to call us on 101 quoting 176 26/11/25.
“If you noticed any suspicious behaviour in and around this filling station this morning, or in recent days, or if you were travelling in the area at this time, we want to hear from you.
"Similarly, if you have relevant dashcam or live in the general area and may have a doorbell camera, your information could be invaluable to our investigation.
"Be vigilant to any unusual activity in and around cash in transit vans. If you see anything around one of these vehicles that doesn’t seem right – let us know immediately.
Any information can also be provided using the online non-emergency reporting form, or Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.