Police investigate shop ‘crime spree’
The SPAR store and Post Office in South Molton had to close for a day while repairs were carried out - photo copyright Molton Monthly Magazine
Thieves tried to break into the Fishleigh Rock Service Station at Umberleigh - photo courtesy of Fishleigh Rock Service Station
Detectives in two counties are appealing for witnesses after five shops were targeted by burglars in the dead of night, leaving a trail of damage to premises and stealing mostly cigarettes and alcohol.
It appears the same three individuals may have struck at Great Torrington, Umberleigh, South Molton and Dulverton between Saturday, February 22nd and Sunday, February 23rd 2025.
Police are appealing for nearby businesses and residents to check their doorbell and CCTV footage after reports of burglaries or attempted break-ins at commercial premises in North Devon and North Somerset.
The local MP, Liberal Democrat Ian Roome, took the unusual step of writing to constituents asking them if they could help detectives track down the thieves.
Offenders smashed a window with a large rock around 1.45am on Sunday, February 23rd to break into the SPAR shop in The Square, South Molton.
A police spokesman said, “They carried out an untidy search of the premises, specifically targeting alcohol and tobacco and items were taken.”
“Three male suspects then fled the scene, running down the alleyway towards the pannier market. All three were wearing black clothing and one was carrying a floral patterned bag.”
The night before, officers were called just after 12.50am following an attempted burglary at Fishleigh Rock Service Station in Umberleigh. Three men forced the shutter door but were unable to gain access to the premises. The suspects were all wearing face coverings and tops with the hoods up, one was wearing white trainers.
Police say there were similar raids at the M&S Simply Food store at Barley Grove Service Station and the nearby Morrisons Daily in New Road, Great Torrington between 12.20am and 2.20am on Saturday, February 22nd.
The Co-op in Fore Street, Dulverton was also hit just before 1am on Sunday, February 23rd but the thieves left empty-handed after causing significant damage to the shop (Avon & Somerset Police crime reference 5225047491).
Anyone who can assist Devon & Cornwall Police with their investigation is asked to report information online or by telephone on 101, quoting crime reference 50250045896.