Detectives in Belfast are appealing for information following an attempted theft from an ATM machine and small explosion in north Belfast today, Tuesday, March 1.

Detective Sergeant Stephen Gardiner said: “Shortly after 1 am police received a report of a loud bang in the area and suspicious activity close to an ATM in the Ballysillan Road area of the city.

“Officers attended and discovered a detonated suspect device close to the ATM, which has received extensive damage due to the explosion.

“ATO were tasked and attended.

“The device was made safe and removed for further examination.

“One man was seen leaving the area on foot shortly after the explosion, and he is described as approximately 5″10 in height, of medium build and dressed in dark clothing.

“The Ballysillan Road, which had been closed during the incident, has now re-opened.”

Police are appealing to anyone who may have seen the suspect or who has information in relation to this incident to contact them.

They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the Ballysillan area, prior to and after this incident.

Detectives in Belfast can be contacted on the 101 non-emergency number, by quoting 58 01/03/22.

A report can also be made online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/