A robber who stole cash from a security van could be caught red handed - literally.
The man took a cash box from a guard working for Securitas on Monday night and later opened it spraying permanent red dye all over the money and himself.
Officers confirmed the robber is still on the run despite a hunt involving patrol cars and the force helicopter on Monday night.
Police are now looking at CCTV footage from around Shoreham Trading Estate to try and establish clues about the man's identity.
The incident happened around 5pm as the Securitas guard carried the cash from the B&Q superstore to the van, which was parked in the store's car park.
There was a short tussle as the robber grabbed the cash box before dashing off towards a silver people carrier parked behind the Securitas van and drove off.
Sussex Police have revealed that the cash box was found later in Gardner Road, Fishersgate and said that it had been wrenched open.
But a red anti theft dye had spilled out, probably covering the robber.
Chief Superintendent Mark Streeter said: "We'd very much like to catch him red handed."
Police said they are still unsure how much cash was stolen in the robbery. The Securitas guard was unhurt.
The man who grabbed the box is described as white, medium build, 5ft 10in.
He was aged between 30 and 35 years-old with short blond hair and wearing a dark jacket, blue jeans and white trainers.
Shoreham CID detectives investigating the robbery are asking any witnesses to call 0845 60 70 999.
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