Attacks on security vans probed

[TrueBlueTerrier]

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A gang of raiders tried to rob a bank security van as it made a delivery, Grampian Police have said.

Three or four men attacked a G4 Securicor guard and his colleague as they were making a stop at a Halifax Bank of Scotland branch in Aberdeen.

The raiders then tried unsuccessfully to gain entry to the bank in Greenwell Road at about 2145 BST on Friday.

On the same night a Royal Mail security van was stolen from outside a shop in Wellington Road.

Det Insp David Hadden, of Grampian Police, said one of the security guards was extremely shaken and suffered minor injuries. His attackers left empty-handed.

The liveried red LDV Royal Mail van was stolen from outside the Wellington Road shop, near the roundabout at West Tullos Road, at about 1730 BST.

Det Insp Hadden said: "These two incidents took place close to each other and within a relatively short space of time.

"Incidents of this kind are very rare in the Grampian area and it is extremely unusual to have two on the same night.

"While there is nothing to suggest they are linked, we are keeping an open mind and our investigations are continuing."

The security van attackers attackers were described as white, wearing dark clothing and all had their faces covered.

Paperwork found

Police are looking for a small dark blue or black hatchback style car which was seen driving away from the scene, similar in style and size to a Ford Focus, in the direction of Wellington Road.

The Royal Mail van was driven along Hareness Road and was recovered abandoned on the Old Coast Road.

Mr Hadden said: "It appears that property has been stolen from the van and we are working to establish exactly what has been taken.

"We are also keen to trace the driver of a light blue car, possibly a Subaru, which was seen in the area as the driver may be able to help us with our inquiries."

Officers also want to speak to a man, described as well-dressed in a suit, who alerted the Royal Mail driver to the theft of his van.

Post Office paperwork was found at about 2045 BST by a member of the public in a field near Blairs, on the outskirts of Portlethen, and is being examined by police.

[DGP1]

Another postie getting the sack for not following procedure