BRAZEN thieves wearing masks threatened a leading bank’s security men and robbed them of a five-figure sum of money in Helensburgh.
The G4S employees were robbed during a cash transfer at around 12.30am today.
The security firm employees were inside the Santander bank on West Princes Street in the town when two men entered, approached them and threatened them with weapons.
The thieves then made off in an unknown direction with the cash box, which contained a five figure sum of money.
Police say enquiries are at an early stage, and have appealed for witnesses.
The suspects are described as being of medium height, medium build, and were wearing blue overalls and masks at the time of the incident.
Detective Inspector Douglas Wilson, Argyll and West Dunbartonshire CID, is leading the investigation.
He said: “Our enquiries are at an early stage following this calculated robbery of a cash box in West Princes Street.
“The employees were placed in a state of fear and alarm as two men entered the premises of the bank, threatened the men with weapons and then made off with the cash box in an unknown direction.
“A substantial investigation is underway to trace the men responsible. A dedicated team based at Helensburgh police office is currently analysing any available CCTV. Officers remain at the scene on West Princes Street and local door to door enquiries are currently being progressed.
“At this time we are seeking the assistance of the public to come forward with any information which could help our investigation. It is possible that someone has seen or heard a disturbance at the Santander bank on West Princes Street. You may have seen men running off from the scene, or heard the sound of cars travelling at speed.
“You may not think the information you have is valuable to us, but any information can make a real difference. As part of our larger investigation, your assistance could be critical in tracing the persons responsible.”
The bank remained closed this morning as officers combed the area for clues.
One of the glass panels at its entrance was broken and boarded up.
A Santander spokesperson said: "Santander can confirm that an incident occurred in its Helensburgh Branch early this morning (6 April).
"The branch is currently closed and the Police are managing the incident. We expect the branch to re-open later today (Wednesday).
"We understand this may inconvenience some customers but we have staff on hand to assist outside the branch and we would ask customers to use online, mobile or telephone banking for any urgent requirements they have whilst the branch is closed."
Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at Helensburgh police office via 101. Alternatively, please call CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.
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