Man arrested over armed robbery of cash-in-transit van
A man has been arrested by detectives investigating the armed robbery of a cash-in-transit van in Belfast city centre on Tuesday morning.
The 32-year-old was detained following searches of three properties in the Divis area of west Belfast on Thursday night and later released on bail pending further enquiries.
A cash box containing a sum of money was stolen when a man armed with a handgun threatened a cash-in-transit employee at Academy Street at about 7.50am on Tuesday.
PSNI Detective Sergeant O’Flaherty said: “While we are not confirming the amount of money that was stolen, a green dye pack fitted as part of the security measures in the cash box did explode.
“So I would also ask people, and in particular retailers, to contact us if they encounter anyone attempting to use banknotes covered in green dye.”
Police say the robber made off in a grey or silver older model Renault Megan Scenic that was driven by an accomplice.
That vehicle was found on fire in Roumania Rise a short time later.
Police also recovered the damaged, empty cash box a short distance away.
The suspect is said to have been wearing a dark coloured balaclava, a high visibility vest over a black top, a pair of red gloves, grey bottoms, and is described as being approximately 5ft 7ins tall.
DS O’Flaherty added: “While I would again like to thank those people who have come forward with information, this robbery happened as rush hour got underway, so I am appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or who saw anything suspicious in the area of Academy Street/Exchange Street,or the car being abandoned and set alight on Roumania Rise on Tuesday morning, to call detectives on 101.
“I would also be keen for drivers with dash-cams who were in the area on Tuesday morning to check their footage and to get in contact if they have recorded any footage which might help.
“Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”