By Ronan McSherry

THE spate of ATM robberies across Tyrone has continued, with a machine at a bank in Ballygawley the thieves' latest target.

Part of the Northern Bank building was demolished in the attack in the early hours of Thursday morning, forcing the premises to close until Friday (November 27) at least. Local people were forced to travel several miles to access another machine, the nearest of which are at least 12 miles away in Dungannon and Omagh.

This is the eighth such ATM raid in Tyrone since May, accounting for over half of the total of 14 incidents across the North. Previous similar robberies took place in Carrickmore, Dungannon and along the Ballygawley A5. It is not known if the attacks are linked however police investigating the thefts have not made a single arrest.

In this latest heist a gang of men used a mechanical digger to try and steal the ATM shortly after 3am before making their escape in a white van. Following the raid, Main Street in Ballygawley was closed for a time, causing delays for motorists and buses.

The head of the CID in F District, Detective Chief Inspector Derek Scott said, "Police on both sides of the border have noted an increase in thefts of cash machines over the past 18 months. A number of these have taken place in Tyrone and Fermanagh and many have had striking similarities in the way they were carried out. An active enquiry is in place, however it might compromise our investigations to go into details, or to speculate about those behind the incidents.

"We are also encouraging people living close to these facilities to be vigilant. Businesses that have plant machinery that could be used in such attacks are also encouraged to secure their machinery, perhaps by removing vital operating parts at nights and weekends."

Local SDLP councillor, Anthony McGonnell, added, "This is an essential service for the people in this area. The reality is that these gangsters have caused major inconvenience and this is something that is an absolute necessity to the village."

Cash machine operator LINK is offering a reward of up to £25,000 to anyone who can help catch robbers targeting ATMs.

Detectives in Dungannon are appealing for information. The number to call is 0845 600 8000. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.