Panic as armed robbers strike again

Robber threatens woman during the robbery at Denehurst Stores

Another security guard has been attacked by armed robbers who stole a substantial amount of cash.

The latest attack happened at Tesco Express, Norden Road, early on Wednesday morning (15 April), when two men, armed with a crowbar and a sledgehammer, forced their way into an office.

The guard had previously locked himself in after realising he had been followed into the store.

This latest attack follows a series of similar incidents across the borough.

On Saturday 11 April, Tesco Express on Dale Street Milnrow, was attacked by two armed men, one with a crowbar, one with an axe. They made off with £16,000.

Last month, masked men tried to attack the co-op store on Kenyon Lane, while making a war cry and knocking a pedestrian out of the way.

Speaking about today’s attack, Detective Constable Janice Cruttwell from Rochdale CID said: "The men went in and out of the store on foot and I am sure there must have been people around who would have seen them.

"I would like to speak to anyone that may have seen the robbery or the car being driven off and dumped by the three offenders. Fortunately no one was injured but these men stole a lot of money and need to be caught."

One of the offenders is described as white, 5ft 8in tall of stocky build with possibly a local Manchester accent. He was wearing a balaclava and dark clothing.

The second offender is described as white, 6ft tall of skinny build. He was wearing a balaclava and dark clothing.

Anyone with any information on any of the incidents is asked to call Rochdale CID on 0161 856 8443 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.