An appeal has been launched by police after a cash machine was blown up and robbed.

Barking and Dagenham Post: The suspectsThe suspects (Image: Archant)

During the raid – which happened at about 3.50am on Monday, October 10 – the machine in Ripple Road, Barking was filled with gas and detonated.

The nearby Day Lewis Pharmacy was also damaged during the theft and was forced to close for the day.

Det Con Katie Scott said: “The method used by these suspects is incredibly dangerous.

“It is fortunate that no one - including themselves - was injured during this robbery.”

Barking and Dagenham Post: One of the suspectsOne of the suspects (Image: Archant)

She added: “I would appeal to anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious to contact police.”

Police believe three suspects left the scene on two motorbikes.

There have been no arrests, but the Met’s Flying Squad continues to investigate.

Anyone with information is asked to call police via 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Barking and Dagenham Post: The pharmacy in Ripple Road, Barking, sustained smoke damage from the explosion, which melted the corner of its doorThe pharmacy in Ripple Road, Barking, sustained smoke damage from the explosion, which melted the corner of its door (Image: Archant)