Anger after ‘thugs’ rip ATM machine from wall of Bessbrook filling station
There is widespread anger in the local community today after it emerged that a popular local business, Dan Gregory’s on the Camlough Road, suffered significant damage following the theft of an ATM machine from the garage.
There was significant damage caused to the popular filling station. Photo: PAK Aerial Media
The theft occured early this morning, Friday 6th November, and it is believed that heavy machinery was stolen from a building site on the Camlough Road at around 3.30am this morning and subsequently used to remove an ATM machine from the wall of the filling station.
Speaking to Newry Times, Detective Constable Sarah Lyttle said, “The machinery was set on fire following the incident, blocking the road, which remains closed at this time as we carry out our enquiries.
She added, “I would ask anyone who witnessed this incident or who has any information which may assist our investigation to contact detectives in Ardmore on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Newry & Armagh Ulster Unionist MLA Danny Kennedy condemned last night’s incident. “This is the second similar attack in six years on a well-respected family run business.
Some of the damage caused at the Camlough Road filling station. Photo: Kate Loughran
“To compound their crime, the robbers then set heavy machinery on fire in the middle of the Newry to Camlough Road, which created major traffic disruption on Friday morning,” Kennedy added.
Sinn Féin MLA Conor Murphy echoed Kennedy’s sentiments. “This was a despicable attack on a locally owned business that provides jobs and a crucial service to the community,” he said.
“The theft of the shop’s cash machine is particularly loathsome as these machines provide a vital service to people in rural areas, especially people with limited mobility or access to transport.
Heavy machinery left outside St Paul’s High School. Photo: Kate Loughran
Blasting those responsible for setting the vehicle on fire outside St Paul’s School, Murphy continued, “Thankfully nobody was hurt but their actions have caused the closure of a particularly busy stretch of road at its busiest time, stopping people getting to work and, crucially, children getting to school.
“These thugs have no respect or regard for this area or its people. Crimes like this are an assault on the entire community and as such the entire community must unite to face these parasites down.
He added, “If anyone witnessed any suspicious behaviour last night or indeed anything of note in the area of the Camlough Road I would urge them to contact the PSNI as soon as possible and help get these criminals off the backs of our communities.”
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Posted by Newry Times News
on Nov 6 2015. Filed under Business, Community, News.
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