ATM theft slammed as ‘disgraceful attack’ on local business: Cllr Aaron Skinner

All Images: Kirth Ferris / Pacemaker Press

An early-morning ATM theft at a convenience store in Greenisland has been strongly condemned by local Alliance Councillor Aaron Skinner, who labelled the crime a “disgraceful attack on a valued local business”.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning, when a van was reportedly reversed up to Russells Food & Drink on Upper Road shortly after 1am. The suspects are understood to have forced entry before using a hoist system to remove the ATM from inside the premises.

Police and forensic officers have since cordoned off the store and launched a full investigation into the theft. No arrests have been made at this stage.

Councillor Skinner voiced his anger following the incident, stating:

“This is a shocking incident and a disgraceful attack on a valued local business. Thankfully, crimes like this are rare in Greenisland – but that doesn’t make the impact any less serious.”

He continued:

“The damage done, the disruption caused, and the risk to people’s safety are unacceptable. It’s not just about an ATM being taken. It’s about the ripple effect it has on staff, customers and the wider community.”

He urged residents and motorists in the area to check any available footage from the time of the incident:

“I’d urge anyone who saw anything suspicious or has dashcam or CCTV from the area to get in touch with the police. Even a small detail might help.”

A spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland commented:

“Detectives are investigating a report of the theft of an ATM from retail premises in the Upper Road area of Greenisland, around 1.30am on Thursday, June 26.

“Enquiries are ongoing and anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anything, or who may have dash-cam, CCTV or other video footage, is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 84 of 26/6/25.

“A report can be made online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”