Updated 4.40pm

FIVE MEN HAVE been arrested by gardaí after masked men robbed a post office in Co Waterford.

Gardaí in the county are investigating an armed robbery at the post office in Cleaboy this morning. At approximately 11.10am they said three masked men entered the post office before threatening staff and demanding money.

One of the males was armed with a sawn off shotgun.

The three men left the scene with a sum of money and made their getaway in a car. A car was found burnt out a short time later.

In a follow-up search, five men were arrested in connection with this investigation. They are currently detained at Waterford Garda Station under the provisions of Section 30 – Offences Against the State Act 1939.

The scene is currently preserved and investigations are continuing.

It is believed that the suspects left the scene in a red Renault Laguna in the direction of Old Kilmeaden Road. A red Renault Laguna was found a short time later burnt out at Carriganore, Waterford.

Gardaí are appealing to members of the public who may have witnessed the robbery or may have seen anything suspicious:

• In the vicinity of the post office prior to the robbery
• After the robbery as they left the scene
• In the vicinity of the burnt out car

To contact them in Waterford on 051 305300 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. They are also appealing for anyone who may have been driving in the area with dashcams during the relevant time or may have CCTV footage from commercial premises to also contact them.