Bank targeted in Cleland armed robbery
AN armed robber made off with an empty cash box after a dramatic hold up in Cleland on Monday.
The incident unfolded at the Royal Bank of Scotland on Main Street around 2pm as a G4S security van delivered money to the branch.
A man wearing dark clothing and a mask jumped out of a black Volkswagen Golf GTI and followed one of the guards into the bank.
He then threatened him with what is believed to have been a firearm and demanded the case - which RBS have confirmed was empty.
After being given the box, he ran from the bank and into the waiting car - being driven by a masked man - which sped off in the direction of Shotts.
The vehicle was later found burnt out in Stawstonfoot Road and is currently undergoing forensic tests.
Strathclyde Police confirmed the firearm was not discharged and nobody was injured as a result of the incident, but say staff and customers in the bank have been left shaken by what happened.
Detectives have now launched an investigation and called for witnesses to come forward.
The only description of the two men is that they were wearing dark clothing and masks. Police are in the process of establishing exactly what has been stolen.
Detective Chief Inspector Pat Campbell, leading the investigation, said: “It’s imperative we catch the men responsible for this robbery. “Brandishing a firearm in broad daylight is totally unacceptable and the consequences could have been much more serious.
“It is possible the black Golf GTI that was used by the suspects may have been in the area prior to the robbery, and I would appeal to anyone who saw it to contact us.
“We are checking CCTV and already, a number of people have come forward to help with the investigation, however I’d still encourage anyone who has any information to contact CID at Wishaw Police Office on 01698 202600 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
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Weather for Motherwell, Scotland
Thursday 23 May 2013
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 5 C to 11 C
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