SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey horrified at raid on bingo hall

DETECTIVES are on the trail of a gang who robbed a bingo hall.

Staff were left badly shaken during the raid on Pennyburn bingo and amusements premises in Derry.

Raiders are understood to have made off with a substantial amount of cash during this morning’s robbery.

Local MLA Pat Ramsey says he is horrified by the nature of the incident.

“I first of all want to express sympathy with staff in Pennyburn,” he said.

“They have just gone through an awful ordeal and sometimes that can be forgotten when crimes like this are committed.

“I would urge anyone with information to give it to the police immediately so that those responsible don’t get to do this to ordinary workers again.”

PSNI detectives have launched a hunt for the gang.

Detective Inspector David McQuade has issued a statement on the incident.

McQuade said,” Shortly after 5am today, Thursday January 8, a number of masked men approached staff arriving at business premises.

“They appeared to be carrying bats or iron bars. The staff members made their escape, however the gang stole money from their car.

“Neither of the staff members was injured. Police are keen to hear from anyone who saw a group of four or five men in the Pennyburn Industrial Estate.

“Information can be given on the police non-emergency number, 101, or by calling the Crimestoppers Charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.