CROOKS used a JCB digger to remove a cashpoint from Harwich's Home Bargains overnight. 

Essex police were called at around 2am today to reports of a theft of an ATM from the front of Home Bargains at the Harwich Gateway Retail Park.

After a search of the area two vehicles, believed to have been connected to the incident, were discovered abandoned nearby.

A spokesman for Essex police said: "We were called at around 2am today (8 April) to reports of a theft of an ATM at Harwich Gateway Retail Park.

"It was reported that suspects using a JCB digger had removed the ATM from the front of Home Bargains.

"After a search of the area two vehicles, believed to have been connected to the incident, were discovered abandoned nearby.

"Enquiries into this incident are ongoing."

Echo: Digger - Essex police said the suspects used the JCB digger to remove the ATMDigger - Essex police said the suspects used the JCB digger to remove the ATM (Image: CCP)

The spokesperson added: "We are appealing for any witnesses, or anyone who may have relevant doorbell or dashcam footage, to come forward."

Echo: Removed - cash point

According to the Counter Crime Partnership (CCP), a shared radio scheme between businesses across North Essex, B&M reported the incident this morning after 7am.

Scott Pepper, lead control room officer at CCP, said that this morning there has been a police presence with there being three police officers present at 9.30am.

A police spokesman added: "You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

 "Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively you can call us on 101.

 "Please quote incident 073 of 8 April 2024."