A MAJOR manhunt was launched after an armed raid on a security van at a service station in Suffolk.A masked robber brandishing a handgun approached a Securicas UK van, threatened staff and escaped with an unknown amount of cash.

A MAJOR manhunt was launched after an armed raid on a security van at a service station in Suffolk.

A masked robber brandishing a handgun approached a Securicas UK van, threatened staff and escaped with an unknown amount of cash.

The raid happened on the forecourt of the Esso garage in Field Road, Mildenhall, just after 5.30pm yesterday .

The robber, who was wearing a black balaclava, threatened the driver of the van and demanded he handed over cash from inside. Securicas staff then handed over the money and he made his getaway on foot.

Last night, scenes of crime officers were scouring the area for clues, while detectives spoke to those who had been in the security van as well as any witnesses nearby.

A Suffolk police spokesman said: "We are in the early stages of this investigation and anyone with any information, anyone who witnessed anything or saw anyone acting suspiciously should ring Suffolk police."

He added: "The driver was threatened by what appeared to be a handgun. A quantity of cash was handed over. No shots are fired and there are no reports of anyone being injured."

It is the third time the service station has been at the centre of a robbery investigation. In February 2000 and May 2001, raiders stole cash from the till and were later arrested and jailed.

The robber involved in last night's incident is described as being 6ft 2in tall, wearing a black balaclava, black jacket and jeans.

No one from Securicas was available for comment last night

Anyone with any information should contact Suffolk Police on 01473 613500.