Thieves have been stealing cars then targeting cash machines in County Durham.
In total four ATMs have been targeted in the last few weeks – including the Spar store in Heighington village, near Newton Aycliffe.
The thieves method is to steal vehicles from rural communities and then use them in the raids on the cash machines.
The most recent incident happened at the Post Office in Billy Row, Crook in the early hours of Wednesday, November 4.
Police were called to the shop at about 1.30am after reports that a Toyota Hilux pick-up truck was being used to remove the front door of the property.
Attempts to remove the cash machine inside were unsuccessful.
The other incidents took place at the Co-operative Store in Frosterley on Saturday, September 19, the Co-op in Barnard Castle last Wednesday, October 28 and the Spar store in Heighington on Tuesday this week, November 3.
All the offences took place in the early hours of the morning and police suspect the raids are linked because the methods have been similar.
Detective Chief Inspector Brad Howe said: “We believe that the individuals responsible for these raids are targeting rural areas which they see as an easy target.
“The vehicles they are stealing from these locations are then being used to force entry to stores containing ATM machines.
“We would like to remind people to make sure you secure your vehicles and store your vehicle keys safely.
“We would also ask people to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity, particularly in locations which contain cash machines and may be targets for similar attempted thefts. “
Three men have been arrested in connection with the theft from the store in Barnard Castle and bailed pending further enquiries.
Anyone with information that might help police investigating the incidents is asked to contact Durham Constabulary on 101.
