Cash Machine Heist Foiled in Canterbury – Crook Jailed!
A brazen gang tried to rip a cash machine from a shop wall using a digger, but police swooped in and nabbed one of the criminals. James Collins, 30, has been locked up for over five years for his part in the chaotic raid.
Early Morning Smash and Grab Stunt
Shortly after 2.30 a.m. on November 12, 2021, trouble kicked off at a St Martin’s Hill shop in Canterbury. The crooks stole a digger from a nearby site and used it to smash through the wall protecting the cash machine.
Collins, wearing a balaclava, was behind the wheel of an Isuzu Trooper. His escape was anything but smooth – the car crashed into a police vehicle and, after a second patrol rammed him, he tried to run. Officers quickly tasered and arrested him.
High-Speed Police Chase Ends in Drama
- The stolen digger and cash machine were dumped in the road.
- Two more vehicles – a Range Rover and a tipper truck – sped off towards Littlebourne.
- The tipper repeatedly rammed a police car during a tense country lane pursuit before the others fled.
Justice Served After Daring Crime
Collins, from Lenham Heath, Maidstone, was charged the next day by Kent’s Serious Crime Directorate. Police recovered the cash but the shop suffered serious damage.
“This was an organised effort to steal money, and the group didn’t care what harm came to members of the public or police officers who got in their way,” said Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Chris Greenstreet.
“I am pleased the quick police response resulted in the arrest and imprisonment of this dangerous man. My team will continue to hunt the others involved.”
“The case highlights the bravery of officers facing unpredictable and dangerous situations, as the suspects rammed police cars to escape.”
Police remain on the lookout for the rest of the gang who pulled off this daylight robbery attempt under cover of darkness.
