Robbers blow up cash machine at Castleton Co-op

The bomb disposal squad in Castleton

Robbers have stolen a substantial amount of cash from the Castleton Co-op after causing an explosion to remove the cash machine on Monday evening (24 April).

At around 9.30pm, police were called to reports of a robbery at the Grosvenor Street store.

Detectives believe that two or three men entered a convenience store on Grosvenor Street and threatened staff members before asking them to leave the shop then created a small explosion to remove the cash machine from the premises.

Specialist officers were in attendance on Grosvenor Street to secure the area, which police said is standard procedure to keep members of the public safe.

A substantial amount of cash was taken, and no arrests have been made as of yet.

Detective Inspector Stuart Round from GMP’s Rochdale CID, said: “We are doing all we can to identify those involved as we continue to investigate at pace and establish the full circumstances of this incident.

“This was a carefully planned and brazen attack, where those involved showed a complete disregard for the property and other members of the public. Thankfully, no one was injured.”

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “Shortly before 10pm yesterday evening (Monday 24 April), three fire engines from Rochdale and Heywood fire stations were called to attend an incident on Grosvenor Street, Rochdale.

“Crews arrived quickly and firefighters worked alongside colleagues from Greater Manchester Police to make the area safe.”

Anyone with information should contact officers, on 0161 856 8719, or using GMP’s LiveChat facility on www.gmp.police.uk or alternatively Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.