Masked gang attack security guard with sledgehammer

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Masked gang attack security guard with sledgehammer during raid on Royal Mail van

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Armed robbers who hit a security guard with a sledgehammer during a violent raid fled empty handed after momentarily locking themselves in an office.

The masked gang, also armed with a machete, ambushed Royal Mail staff making a delivery at Aldi on Lloyd Street South in Moss Side at around 9.45am this morning (February 3).

They demanded cash and forced staff into an office, but were momentarily unable to escape after damaging the door handle.

After unsuccessful attempts to smash a window, they managed to damage the door and escape, before running out of the store empty handed.

A guard was hit across his back and shoulder with a sledgehammer during the raid. Police say he was later taken to hospital for treatment.

The gang escaped in a white BMW One series - MT62 KKE - that had been stolen from Cheetham Hill on February 1.

Officers say the four men were all white and wearing balaclavas.

Detective Sergeant Doug Cowan , said: “The robbers have used unnecessary levels of violence and intimidation during the raid.

“Various staff members have been threatened and some people injured, one quite seriously having been hit with a sledgehammer.

“None of the victims offered any resistance, making this attack all the more unwarranted and brutal.

“At one point they have locked themselves inside the store and attempted to smash their way out, only to manage to briefly repair the door and escape, proving that these men are at ease terrifying and attacking innocent people and using whatever force necessary in pursuit of their aims."

Anyone with information about the raid, or the stolen car, is asked to call police on 0161 856 6104, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.