CROOKS used a JCB digger to remove a cashpoint from Harwich's Home Bargains in an early morning raid. 

Essex Police were called at around 2am on Monday to reports of a theft of an ATM from the front of store 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 on April 8 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."

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: 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."

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: Removed - cash point

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

Scott Pepper, lead control room officer at CCP, said there was a large police presence, with at least three police officers remaining after the scene after 9.30am.

A police spokesman urged witnesses to come forward.

He 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 between 10am and 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 April 8."

Ward councillor Bill Davidson, who is also chairman of the Parkeston Welfare Park Residents' Association, said: "As chairman, I am appalled by this action as it will inconvenience a lot of people who use that machine for their daily money for groceries."

Ram raids have been a problem for police forces in the east of England with three such raids in Cambridgeshire alone in the space of three months in late 2023.

On January 3, ram-raiders also struck in Tilbury, but Essex Police say they are not yet linking that incident with the incident in Harwich.