Crossgar firm burgled twice in a few hours

Crossgar firm burgled twice in a few hours

15 August 2012

THIEVES targeted Crossgar Foodservice’s Kilmore Road premises twice within a matter of hours last week.

During the first incident around 10.30pm, thieves forced their way into the building after smashing a plate glass window in a front door and made off with a safe, which is understood to have contained a sum of money. The safe was stolen from an upstairs office.

During the second burglary, which happened a few hours later, thieves attempted to steal a second safe from the premises but it’s believed they may have been disturbed as they made off, leaving the safe lying in a hallway.

Councillor Terry Andrews said a number of personal items belonging to staff were also taken during the burglaries.

He has condemned the incident and said his thoughts are with the local business which is one of the district’s major employers.

“Businesses are finding the going tough at the moment and this is the last thing they should have to contend with,” he declared.

“I cannot believe this business was targeted twice within a matter of hours and while police investigations are continuing, it could well be that the same burglars were responsible.”

Councillor Andrews said business owners should do all they can to make their respective premises secure.

He added: “I would appeal to anyone who knows anything about these burglaries to contact police immediately. There have been a number of business premises targeted by thieves in recent weeks across the Rowallane area, with the most recent the Mace store in Killyleagh.

Police want to hear from anyone who many have noticed any suspicious activity in the Kilmore Road area either late on Tuesday evening of last week or early the following morning.

Anyone who believes they can help is asked to contact detectives at Downpatrick on 0845 600 8000 or use the confidential Crimestoppers number 0800 555111.