Six arrested over cash machine thefts in dawn raids across Ashton and Stockport

Six people were arrested in dawn raids across Ashton and Stockport this morning as police investigate a series of gas explosion cash machine attacks.

Six people were arrested in dawn raids across Ashton and Stockport this morning as police investigate a series of gas explosion cash machine attacks.

Officers executed warrants at nine addresses as part of Operation Benson, which was launched in response to incidents involving the theft of money from ATMs.

Ashton’s Oldham Road, Uxbridge Street and Garden Walk were all targeted by GMP this morning, while raids also took place on Robinson Street, Caroline Street and Handley Close in Stockport.

Derbyshire Police also executed a warrant at Woodlands Close in Tintwistle on behalf of GMP.

The six people arrested under Operation Benson were:

• A 30-year-old man for conspiracy to cause an explosion likely to endanger life and conspiracy to burgle.
• A 34-year-old man for conspiracy to cause an explosion likely to endanger life and conspiracy to burgle.
• A 30-year-old man for conspiracy to cause an explosion likely to endanger life and conspiracy to burgle.
• A 28-year-old man for conspiracy to cause an explosion likely to endanger life and conspiracy to burgle.
• A 30-year-old woman for conspiracy to burgle and money laundering.
• A 33-year-old woman for conspiracy to burgle.

A 28-year-old man was also arrested for possession of Class B drugs with intent to supply.

Detective Sergeant Phil Kennedy said: “Thanks to the excellent work of our officers; colleagues within other force areas and SaferCash partners, we have been able to bring six people into custody this morning. Additionally, we have a further person in custody for drugs offences.

 “These raids came as the result of extensive intelligence gathering and show our determination in dismantling organised crime networks who commit these kinds of crimes.

“Today’s operation is a response to various types of ATM attacks– including those which use gas explosions to access monies, endangering the lives of anyone caught nearby. 

“While the vast majority of people in Greater Manchester work hard for their rewards in life, a small minority think it acceptable to try and shortcut their way via acts of criminality.

“We will do everything in our power to catch and prosecute organised criminals whose offending blights our communities. If you believe someone to be involved in criminality, contact police immediately. Your actions will help prevent innocent people becoming the victims of crime.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.