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Substantial damage has been caused to an off licence in Jonesborough. Raiders attempted unsuccessfully to steal cash from an atm on the premises.
Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Organised Crime Unit are investigating the burglary and have asked for anyone with information to come forward.
Detective Sergeant Monaghan said: “Police received a report that an off licence in The Village area had been entered during the early hours of Monday morning, 26th February.
“A shutter at the rear of the property had been forced open and substantial damage was caused to the ceiling area.
“Extensive damage had also been caused to an ATM housed inside the premises – in an attempt to force it open. Thankfully, nothing was taken from it.
“We are investigating reports two men were observed at the back of the property during the early hours of Monday morning, who were wearing all dark clothing, gloves and masks covering their faces.
“These men accessed the property via its roof, before leaving again and returning sometime later with two other men, who were also wearing dark clothing and masks, with a similar large build.
“They again entered the premises and were all carrying tools in an attempt to break into the safe of the ATM.
“We believe the men then left the premises on foot empty-handed and fled across a field at the rear of the building.
“Our investigation is now underway to establish exactly what happened, who was involved and a motive.
Slieve Gullion Councillor Mickey Larkin has condemned the incident. Cllr Larkin said "An attempt to rob an ATM during the early hours of Monday 26th February was not just an attack on a local business, but also an attack on the community of Jonesborough. Criminals spent several hours in the premises attempting to break into the ATM, but fled empty handed when the police arrived.
"During the break-in, extensive damage was caused to the property. This long-established business provides a service and employment within the community of Jonesborough and further afield.
Police are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, and saw anything suspicious on Sunday evening 28 February between 11pm and 4am on Monday morning, to call police on 101, quoting reference number 240 26/02/24.”
Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org
