SIX people are being held in connection with armed robberies across the North-East.
Northumbria Police have arrested five men and one woman in connection with a number of 'cash in transit' robberies in Newcastle and Gateshead.
The incidents happened between October and December 2014.
The men aged 54, 46, 44, 43 and 37, and the woman aged 43, have been arrested as part of an ongoing operation.
Detective Chief Inspector John Bent, of Northumbria Police's Major Crime Team, said: "Robberies of this type are rare however the police response has been significant given the serious nature of such crimes.
"Northumbria Police is working closely with the security industry to help prevent cash-in-transit robberies. Officers on patrol regularly follow security vans and escort them to their destination to make sure the vans are not an easy target for thieves."
If anyone has information about those responsible, or witnesses a van being targeted, we would urge them to contact Northumbria Police on 101 ext 69191. In an emergency or if a crime is taking place ring 999.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article