Raiders fled with cash after destroying an ATM machine in a smash and grab this morning.
Police sealed off roads and trains could not stop at a blocked off Orrell Park station after the culprits struck around 2.20am today.
Detectives urged witnesses and and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward after confirming the raiders helped themselves to cash after smashing their way into the stand-alone cash machine.
Moss Lane was closed in both directions between Orrell Lane and Matlock Avenue.
As of 9.30am the police cordon remained with forensics work ongoing and the damaged ATM was also surrounded by blue sheeting.
Witnesses said people turning up to the station this morning were turned away by police at the scene.
A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "Detectives are appealing for information following an ATM theft outside Orrell Park in the early hours of today, Tuesday 16 March.
"At around 2.20am, officers attended following an alarm being activated at Orrell Park Station. Damage was confirmed to a stand-alone ATM machine and cash was removed. "
Confirming bus replacements were being organised Merseyrail tweeted around 6am: "Due to a police incident near the station, resulting in a road closure- Orrell Park is currently not accessible at trains are NOT able to call at this station until further notice."
On Twitter @Scouse_MarkEFC· warned: "Stay away from the bridge at Orrell Park train station. Road is closed and police are turning people away."
Detective Chief Inspector Sabi Kaur said: “Our enquiries are at an early stage but we’re keen to hear from anyone who may have been passing or live locally and captured this incident on their CCTV, dashcam or other devices. "
Enter your postcode below for news where you live
“If you saw or heard any vehicles making off at speed around 2.20am, come forward too and we will take positive action on all information received.
“We’re determined to find those responsible and thank everyone for their patience as we carry out this investigation.”
Police say people should contact them @MerPolCC on Twitter, ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook with crime reference 21000166645.
Information can also be passed on via 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 and online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously.
