Burglary and attempted ATM theft investigated in Jonesborough

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.

“We are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, and saw anything suspicious on Sunday evening 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 http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org

The incident has been condemned by Slieve Gullion Sinn Féin councillor Mickey Larkin.

"An attempt to rob an ATM during the early hours of Monday, February 26 was not just an attack on a local business, but also an attack on the community of Jonesborough,” he said.

"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.

"This ATM is an essential service for the community and its' loss is already being felt. Although a timeline to reinstate this facility has yet to be identified I would hope that work to repair the ATM will happen at pace.

"I have spoken with the proprietor and the local community who are shocked and disgusted by this criminal act.

"If anyone has any information relating to this incident, I would encourage them bring it forward to the authorities."