Ballysillan explosion caused by attempted ATM theft

A small explosion in north Belfast in the early hours of Tuesday was caused by the attempted theft of a cash machine, BBC News NI understands.

A loud bang was heard on the Ballysillan Road shortly after 01:00 GMT on Tuesday along with suspicious activity, police said.

Officers found a “detonated suspect device” close to the bank machine, which was badly damaged in the blast.

BBC News NI understands a gas cannister was used in the attempted theft.

Army technical officers went to the scene and the device was made safe and removed for further examination.

Det Sgt Stephen Gardiner appealed for information.

“One man was seen leaving the area on foot shortly after the explosion, and he is described as approximately 5″10 in height, of medium build and dressed in dark clothing,” he said.

Earlier, DUP councillor Dale Pankhurst said the bid to steal the cash machine had resulted in a “mini explosion”.

Mr Pankhurst added: “Those responsible then made off towards Ballysillan playing fields.”

Another DUP councillor Brian Kingston said the attempt to steal the cash machine at a “popular shop” in a residential area was “utterly abhorrent”.

“This is the only free ATM machine in Ballysillan, I used it myself earlier this week,” he added.

“Like everyone else I am disgusted to hear that there has been this attempt to steal cash from the machine, but also an entirely reckless attack.”

SDLP assembly member for north Belfast Nichola Mallon said the incident was “worrying” and had shocked the local community.

She added that it was “very fortunate that no one was injured”.

“I would like to commend the police for their swift intervention and I would encourage anyone with any information to come forward and assist them in their inquiries.”

Retail NI chief Executive Glyn Roberts said the “disgraceful attack” had caused significant disruption to an independent retailer and people in the area.

The Ballysillan Road was closed for several hours between Silverstream Gardens and Oldpark Road, but has since reopened.

Source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-60568365