West Mercia Police investigating attempted ATM theft in Bromyard

Offenders are believed to have been trying to remove an ATM in Tenbury Road with a Manitou, which is a large piece of plant machinery.

The arrival of police disturbed the offenders. It is believed that the Manitou was then intentionally driven into the marked police car. The people in the Manitou got into a third vehicle, described as an Audi A6 type, and made off.

The officer in the police vehicle, which was significantly damaged, was not injured in the incident.

The ATM and the Manitou, which is red, were left at the scene, along with a silver 4x4 Mitsubishi L200. A scene guard was put in place overnight, along with a road diversion. This is due to be lifted this morning.

Detective Inspector Martin Taylor said: “A thorough investigation is underway and officers are conducting extensive enquiries in order to locate the offenders.

“We would like to hear from anyone who has information about this incident. I would also ask people who live, or were driving through the area overnight, to get in touch if they saw a red Manitou or a silver Mitsubishi L200, either being driven, or perhaps parked up somewhere.

“House-to-house enquiries are being conducted and there will be additional patrols in the area.”

If anyone has any information that could help police with their enquiries they should call 101 and quote incident number 34 of April 6. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org