Thieves rob ATM from field behind NI filling station

Thieves stole a ‘significant’ sum of cash from an ATM at an NI filling station - gaining access from a field behind.
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Morning patrons to the Co Armagh filling station were confused as to why they were unable to get cash from the ATM.

However it transpired this afternoon that thieves had raided the double ATM unit in an overnight robbery.

Police have cordoned off the scene at Fruitfield Filling Station near Richhill this afternoon (May 13, 2020) as they investigate the theft.

William Irwin MLA at the scene of this morning's robbery in RichhillWilliam Irwin MLA at the scene of this morning's robbery in Richhill
William Irwin MLA at the scene of this morning's robbery in Richhill

DUP MLA William Irwin said the robbers had got access to the ATM unit from a field behind the unit.

The Newry and Armagh MLA said; “This is a blatant robbery, a significant sum of cash has been stolen, thieves gained excess from the fields behind the ATMs, therefore robbery had not been noticed until early afternoon.

“This is a well used and important resource for local people and it is scandalous that such a theft has taken place.

“It is clear that those behind this theft have not been afraid to take some time in breaching the unit and the cover of darkness and the tree foliage has obviously assisted in this process.

“Hopefully those responsible will be brought before the courts and the ATM service can be resumed quickly.”

Cusher DUP Cllr Gareth Wilson said: “This is a concerning theft where I understand access was gained from the back of the ATM unit housing with brickwork being removed to create an opening.

“I understand a significant sum of cash was stolen in the incident and it appears that the criminals involved made their escape over fields to the rear of the premises. As my colleague has stated hopefully the PSNI can apprehend those behind this outrageous theft.”

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