POLICE have launched an investigation following reports of an ATM theft.

Officers with Essex Police were called to Newlands Shopping Centre in Witham this morning, March 22, after an incident was reported involving an ATM at the Halifax bank.

It was discovered that an ATM had suffered severe damage and police are working to see if money was taken.

An investigation has subsequently been launched, with police 'following a number of lines of enquiry'.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We are investigating an incident which was reported to us in The Newlands, Witham, shortly after 2.30am this morning, Tuesday 22 March.

"During the incident, an ATM sustained significant damage. We are working to establish if any money was taken.

"Thankfully, there are no reports of any injuries. 

"Specialist officers are at the scene this morning and a police cordon remains in place as investigations are carried out.

"No arrests have been made and we are following a number of lines of enquiry."

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Halifax has issued a statement on the incident, saying that the bank remains closed, but hopes to reopen as soon as possible.

A spokesman said: “We are aware of an incident which took place at our Halifax branch in Witham last night, and are assisting police with their investigations.

"The branch will remain closed while investigations continue and will reopen as soon as possible.

"We are supporting the police with their investigations and are unable to provide any further details at this time."

MP for Witham Priti Patel has also said that the police have her 'full support' in their ongoing investigation.

She said: “I was shocked to hear of the incident early this morning where an ATM was [targeted] from the Halifax Building Society in the Newlands Shopping Centre.

"I am in contact with Essex Police regarding this incident.

"They have my full support as they investigate and seek to bring the criminals responsible for this crime to justice.”

The bank is currently closed, with police still at the scene.

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