Men sought after armed robbery at hotel

A POLICE chief has described an armed robbery at a famous hotel — where the gang used machetes — as a “shocking” incident.

Police officers were called to reports of an armed robbery at the Gleneagles Hotel at around 11am.

Firearms officers, search dogs and a police helicopter were deployed after four masked men pulled up at the main entrance at the hotel.

The force said inquiries were at an early stage but confirmed that a quantity of watches was stolen from the jewellery store in yesterday’s raid.

Police are now looking to speak to four men who were seen in the area and are believed to have been driving an Audi which was abandoned in the area near to Auchterarder.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Patrick said: “This is a shocking but thankfully rare incident, which we are taking very seriously.

“Our inquiries so far have established that the i ndividuals i nvolved were believed to be armed. Thankfully nobody has been injured although they were understandably shaken.

“We are appealing for anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward and speak to us. In particular, we are looking to speak to anyone who saw a dark-coloured Audi with four men in the area around the time of the incident.

“Officers are conducting inquiries in the area, including forensic examinations, and we would like to reassure the public that this appears to be a targeted incident.

“Staff and residents were evacuated for a short time but they have since been able to return to the hotel.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 1166 of 27/06 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous.”