Masked men grab cigs in armed raid at Tesco

MASKED men armed with a crowbar, bat and knife, escaped with a large quantity of cigarettes in a raid at Tesco Express in Huddersfield Road, Oldham.

The three balaclava-clad raiders entered the supermarket sometime between 11.15pm and 11.40pm on Thursday.

They threatened a number of staff before stealing the cigarettes.

The trio then ran out of the store and got into a new black Volkswagen Golf, which was parked close by in Barry Street.

They drove up Huddersfield Road before doing a u-turn and driving off in the direction of Mumps roundabout.

The first offender is in his early 20s, 6ft tall, of average build, and dressed all in black.

The two other robbers are in their early 20s, between 5ft 10ins and 6ft tall, of medium build and wearing dark clothing.

Det Cons Mike Haymen of Oldham CID, said: “The men initially demanded money but when they realised the staff had no access to the cash, they stole a large amount of cigarettes.

“They left the staff members extremely scared but no one suffered any injuries.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have seen the offenders park up the car on Barry Street, or who saw the car drive off to get in touch.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161-856 8951 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.