DETECTIVES are hunting three men following an attempted armed robbery in Provo last night.
A customer withdrew cash from the ATM at the Royal Bank of Canada in Leeward Highway, just after 9.30pm.
When he came outside the bank foyer, he heard someone shout to him in Creole ‘hey man come here’.
He looked over and saw three dark skinned men standing in the bushes by the car park. The one who shouted was dressed in a red shirt, black jeans and was wearing a hat.
The other two were dressed in all black with masks over their faces. They all appeared to be holding weapons, possibly cutlasses.
The terrified customer ran to his car and drove away from the area at speed.
Police are now investigating the incident and are appealing for witnesses.
Head of RTCI Police CID, Insp Grantley Williams, said: “This was obviously a very frightening ordeal for the victim and I’d urge anyone with information to contact us right away.
“It is unclear as to where the three men went afterwards but we would like to hear from anyone who may have seen these men acting suspiciously in the vacinity of the Royal Canada Bank last night.”
Meanwhile Insp Williams issued a warning to anyone using bank ATMs at night.
“Our advice to people is always be aware of your surroundings and, if at all possible, do not go to ATMs on your own”, he added. “This is particularly so at night time but the same advice applies at all times of the day.
“When you use a machine, make sure nobody is watching you and always be sure to conceal your PIN at all times. As soon as you have completed your transaction, ensure that you put your money and card in a safe place and return to your vehicle straight away.
“My other main tip would be to use less isolated ATM locations at night. Places like the supermarkets where there are lots of people and security patrols on duty.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact 911 or Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477. Tips can also be left in English, French or Spanish at www.crimestoppers.tc or by becoming a friend of Crimestoppers TCI on Facebook.
Crime prevention tips can be found at www.tcipoice.tc
