A JCB digger was driven into the front of Nisa in Newport shortly after 1.20am today.
An ATM was removed from the wall and it is believed it was put on the back of a white Toyota Hilux which then left the scene towards Wickham Road.
The digger, which is thought to have been stolen from a nearby farm, was left at the scene.
As part of their enquiries, officers are looking to see whether this incident is linked to other similar ones which have taken place across the county recently.
District Commander for Uttlesford and Braintree, Chief Inspector Janette Rawlingson: “We know that for the communities affected by these types of offences they’re really concerning and we are working hard to identify those responsible.
“We will have high visibility patrols in the area today to provide some reassurance to the community.
“I need anyone who has any information about this morning’s incident to come forward.
“I particularly need to speak to anyone who has CCTV or dash cam footage from the area, or saw a white Toyota Hilux in the moments after.
“Also if anyone saw the digger in the moments before the incident I need them to come forward.”
It is understood the incident caused significant damage to the roof and flat above the shop in High Street.
The raid follows similar attacks at Aldi, Lord Butler Leisure Centre and Halifax in Saffron Walden and the Co-op in Stansted.
In a statement on Facebook, Ch Insp Rawlingson added: “I understand that Newport is a particularly small community and this crime is likely to feel felt by the residents. We did examine and release the scene quickly to allow the area to get back to normal as soon as we were able.
“Fortunately this remains a crime against a business and there were no personal injuries, but we did take a number of calls from concerned members of the public.
“Unfortunately we were unable to apprehend the offenders but I can reassure you that between the first 999 call and the arrival of police units was just six minutes.
“The investigation has been handed to specialist who will continue with their enquiries today.”
If you have any information please call 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/139010/18 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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