A GANG of masked robbers who escaped with a large amount of cash after targeting a delivery to a Darwen post office left 'red-handed' when they were sprayed with a high-tech security dye.

The three raiders pounced as Royal Mail security guards were delivering cash to the Hollins Grove sub-post office in Bolton Road shortly after midday.

A security canister was activated in the scuffle and the three men and the money were sprayed with pink dye. Police are hoping the dye, which is almost impossible to remove, will help lead them to the gang.

It is believed the three men, who all had their faces covered, pounced after waiting for the cash delivery.

They pushed the security guard to the ground and escaped with the specially designed canister containing the cash. As well as spraying the men with dye, the canister also set off an alarm which alerted police.

Detectives investigating the robbery will not say how much cash was taken but it is believed a substantial amount is missing.

The gang escaped on foot towards Savoy Garage but detectives believe they had an escape vehicle waiting. Det Insp Tony Harling, of Blackburn CID, said: "Someone may have seen these three men before or after the incident. They were left covered in pink dye, and any money they try to use will have traces of dye."

Police say they are not currently linking the raid to a one in Rising Bridge three months ago.

The three men were all white, in their early to mid 20s and between 5ft 5in and 5ft 7in.

One was wearing a grey and purple jacket and a red and white striped woollen hat pulled over his face. He was also wearing jeans and trainers and has a medium build.

Staff at the sub-post office refused to talk about the raid.

Anyone with information should contact Blackburn CID on 01254 51212 or the police Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.

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