Shops Boost Security After Cigarette Burglaries

Newsagents and supermarkets are being advised to review security measures, following a series of high value cigarette thefts in and around Southampton.

Acting Sergeant Russell Smith, of Southampton Central, said: "We are advising local businesses to be aware of these high value cigarette thefts and to ensure they have adequate security measures in place to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this type of burglary."
 
He also said that police are undertaking high visibility patrols and delivering crime prevention advice to owners of newsagents.
 
One Midanbury business installed ground bolts on exterior shutters after two cigarette burglaries in April. They lost £30,000 of stock. A third attempt on June 28 was unsuccessful because of the bolts.  
 
Any business owners who want crime prevention advice from police can contact 101 to ask for a visit from crime prevention officers.
 
Police also would like to hear from anyone who has information about these thefts or who has been offered low price cigarettes or items they suspect are stolen.  Anyone with information can contact the anonymous Crimestoppers charity line on 0800 555111.