Tesco Store Closes After Thieves Steal Cash Point With Digger
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Featured Image Credit: PA
A Tesco supermarket has been targeted by ruthless thieves who used a digger to rip two cash machines from the wall last night.
The criminals used the digger to load the ATMs onto the back of a truck before they sped off, colliding with two police cars during the getaway.
The Tesco store, located in Kent, is now closed and photos have started circulating on social media showing the digger at the scene of the crime.
In the photos, the orange vehicle can be seen discarded outside the entrance of the store, with broken glass and rubble strewn on the ground after the ATMs were ripped from the wall.
@piersmorgan People in Dover are no longer able to shop at Tesco.
- Niall Crutchfield (@KsfaNiall) March 23, 2020
Last night this digger was used to rip the cash machine from the wall.... pic.twitter.com/dL4XnqlaSs
The digger also appears to have damaged the roof of the building after its believed thieves targeted the store in the early hours of this morning.
The area has now been sealed with police tape and it's unknown when the supermarket will reopen - although staff believe it could be later today.
@piersmorgan look at these disgusting scenes someone turning up at TESCO in Dover over the last few days whilst this virus is geiping this country! #worldsgonenuts pic.twitter.com/wGFCtceu09
- Samuel Lilley (@RailwaysToday15) March 23, 2020
A statement from Kent Police reads: "Kent Police is appealing for witnesses after cash machines were stolen from a supermarket in Dover.
"A digger is reported to have been used to remove two ATMs from a wall at Tesco in Honeywood Parkway, Whitfield at around 12.30am on Monday 23 March 2020.
"The machines were loaded onto a flat-bed truck, which was driven in convoy with two Mitsubishi Shogun vehicles.
"Two police vehicles which attempted to stop the group were rammed and damaged in Old Park Hill, Dover. No serious injuries were reported.
Thieves stole a digger from adjacent building site and went after Dover Tesco cash machines. pic.twitter.com/5aybm5StGz
- Carolyn Hughes (@cazzrhughes) March 23, 2020
"Significant damage has been caused and detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate are carrying out enquiries to locate those responsible.
"Anyone who witnessed the incident or has CCTV or dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is urged to call the appeal line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/52654/20.
"You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete an online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org."