Suspected robber stopped in tracks after attempting to steal cash box in broad daylight

At 8.45am this morning (Tuesday 24 December 2024), a cash in transit robbery occurred on Old Street in Ashton town centre.

Enquires so far which have been conducted by Tameside’s Neighbourhood Crime Team, have established that a man approached the driver who had collected the cash and physically assaulted him, knocking him to the ground with kicks and punches before robbing him of the cash box and making off in the direction of Church Street on foot.

The driver called 999 whilst suffering from his injuries and whilst on the phone to one our call operators, a dog handler from GMP’s Specialist Operations was on-duty and patrolling the area in his vehicle when he heard the job on the district channel on his radio.

He immediately responded to the area, tracking the suspect’s location before a short foot chase took place, arresting him with the support of his dog, PD Axel.

The suspect was still in possession of the cash box.

A man aged 41 was arrested on suspicion of robbery.

Superintendent Paul Walker of GMP’s Specialist Operations, said: “I can’t imagine the fear that the driver felt when he was subjected to this terrifying and outrageous robbery.

“This is a great example of the proactive work that happens daily in Greater Manchester by officers who relentlessly pursue those who are blighting our communities and causing the most harm. This was really good outcome with a suspect arrested and all stolen cash recovered.”

If anyone has additional information that may help detectives further their enquiries into this incident, please call 101 quoting log 636 of 24/12/2024.

Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.