£100k Barclays Bank-raid probe

Published: 26 February 2010
by RÓISÍN GADELRAB

IT was the perfect crime. The cameras in the Smithfields branch of Barclays Bank were conveniently switched off, there was no sign of any forced entry, yet more than £100,000 had disappeared from two cash machines inside.

All eyewitnesses could recall was seeing a hooded figure inside the Charterhouse Street bank at about 8.20pm on Thursday February 11.

Detectives are now trying to piece together the clues. Sources told the Tribune the investigation is centring on the possibility of an inside job. And it is understood that Barclays Bank has launched an internal investigation. Islington Police officers are now appealing for witnesses.

An Islington Police spokeswoman said: “A person wearing a grey hooded top was seen in the premises at the time.
“Anyone with information or who saw or heard anything unusual, particularly in relation to cars that were parked close to the bank or anyone seen hanging around outside between 8pm and 8.30pm, is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Rob McPhee on 0207 421 0242 / 0220.”

Anonymous information can be left with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.