A GANG of men threatened security guards with a 'firearm' during a bank raid which saw them make off with a five-figure sum of cash.

The robbers struck just after rush hour in Kirkintilloch's Cowgate at around 6.05pm yesterday and the getaway car used in the heist was later found burnt out in nearby Bishopbriggs

Police say two G4S security guards were within the Santander Bank carrying out cash in transit duties, when three men forced their way into the bank and threatened them with what appeared to be a firearm. No-one was injured in the incident.

The trio stole a cassette containing a five-figure sum of cash before leaving the bank and making their way down a lane near to the bank.  

The suspects are described as white with local accents.  They were all wearing dark coloured clothing and balaclavas were used to try and shield their faces.  The men were also wearing dark coloured shoes and gloves.
 
Cops investigating say that the suspects got into a black coloured Volkswagen Golf car and drove up Glasgow Road towards the city.
 
That car was later found burnt out in Glenburn Gardens, Bishopbriggs.  The car was found at this location around 9.10pm and officers are checking reports that a man, wearing grey clothing, was near to the car before it was set on fire.  Despite the damage to the vehicle it will be subject of a full forensic examination. 

Officers are conducting extensive enquiries in the local area and are reviewing CCTV footage for any additional information on the suspects. 

Detective Inspector Alasdair Barlow, pictured, who is charge of Police Scotland's robbery unit at Govan, said: “I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident to contact us, perhaps you noticed the suspects either prior to, or just after.  

"We understand the suspects got into a black VW Golf which was then driven erratically and recklessly along Glasgow Road.  I’m sure this is something other motorists and members of the public will have noticed.

"This car was then recovered burnt out in Bishopbriggs so I’m appealing to local residents in that area to think back and consider if they saw this car and any of its occupants.  

"If you have any information or if you have any dash cam footage, which perhaps captured the car, please do contact us.  Your information could prove vital in our investigation.”

High visibility foot patrols will be in the area today, providing reassurance to the public and offering safety advice to business premises.  If anyone has any concerns then please speak to these officers.
 
Anyone with any information is asked to contact officers at the Community Investigation Unit at Govan Police Station or officers at Kirkintilloch CID via 101 and quote reference number 2981 of 22 May 2017.  Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.