A VEHICLE used to pull a security grille from the wall and metal spikes thrown from a speeding getaway car, these are the hallmarks of a highly organised criminal gang.

Similar in many respects to ATM robberies, the Dunleer bank raiders were armed, masked and fast - carrying out their terrifying crime in less than ten minutes.

An investigation team has been set up in Drogheda under superintendent, Gerry Smith. He has appealed for help from the general public particularly in relation to the gang's getaway car which is believed to have been the red Audi, found burned out at the Community Centre, Dillonstown, later that night, January 29th.

Gardai are unsure if there is any connection between the robbery and a VW Golf which was found on fire at Clonore estate, Ardee on the same night. But they are not ruling it out at the moment.

Superintendent Gerry Smith has appealed for any witnesses to come forward including anyone who saw anything suspicious around the time that the red Audi was burned out at Dillonstown .