Security vans to get Welshpool police escort

 

Dyfed Powys Police hasn’t confirmed whether they are reacting to a tip off or intelligence leads but confirmed that it won’t be taking any chances in the run up to Christmas and New Year when large amounts of cash are transferred by roads.

 

“Although they are extremely rare, we know that in previous years we have been a target for groups of people who carry out these offences,” said Detective Chief Superintendent Steve Wilkins.

 

“The initiative is designed to deter potential criminals from attacking these vehicles. We want to send a clear message to people that if you try to commit this type of crime in Dyfed Powys there is a real possibility that you will be caught.

 

“We would like to reassure the public that they should not be concerned if they see police vehicles escorting security staff in their vehicles. This is purely a deterrent to criminals and indicative of our commitment to public safety.”

 

Attacks have occurred this year on security personnel delivering cash to Tesco in Welshpool, Nationwide in Newtown (pictured) as well as Barclays in Machynlleth underlining that Montgomeryshire is firmly on the criminal underworld’s radar. Most arrests in connection to these offences have been made in the Midlands.

 

There have also been snatch raids on jewellers in Welshpool and Newtown this year.

 

If you have information linked to cash-in-transit robberies, report it to either Dyfed Powys Police on 101 or anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.