A RESIDENT has described the latest armed raid as unsurprising following a string of attacks in the area. 

A gang of armed robbers stole thousands of pounds during a raid on a Halstead Co-op store.

Four men, armed with a crowbar and hammer, targeted the Co-op, on Abels Road, Halstead, last Tuesday at around 8pm.

The assailants, all covered with scarves and wearing black forced staff to open the office safe and stole thousands of pounds before making off on foot. No-one was injured.

Police, including the force’s helicopter, searched the area but could not track the suspects down.

Officers are investigating whether the same gang are behind a series of armed robberies in the district, including one at Great Yeldham Post Office on January 5.

Vicci Cole, of Manors Green, opposite the Co-op, was shocked and upset by the attack, but almost expected it after a string of similar incidents. 

She said: “It is such a small Co-op that unfortunately it isn’t that surprising. It is so hidden and completely dark at night.

“Looking at the site it is almost asking for it, which sounds horrible to say. Looking at the similar crimes in Great Yeldham, and across Braintree, we said that this one would be next.

“Surely they must be related, you look at the reports of each crime and they are so similar.”

Vicci’s daughter had worked in the shop until recently.

She added: “We are basically neighbours to the shop, I go in there every day and my daughter only stopped working in there a few weeks ago.

“It is scary, and quite worrying.

“I think possibly the worst bit is that they may have been watching the area and scouting it out.

“I hate the idea of someone sitting in their car, watching people go in and out waiting for their opportunity.

“Thankfully everyone is okay, and no-one was hurt, which you always hope for.

“The shop is part of our little community here, so people are affected by it, but you hope that it brings the community together in some way.”

Detective Inspector Mark Cadd said: “This was a frightening incident for the members of staff involved.

“Essex Police will not tolerate people causing fear and threatening violence, and we are confident we will find the people responsible.

“We believe the local community can play an important part in bringing these people to justice and I would urge anyone with any information about this incident or any others to come forward.”

Anyone with information should call Braintree CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.