POLICE are hunting raiders who fled with thousands of pounds worth of cigarettes from a Bournemouth convenience store.

They broke into Boscombe East News, Food and Wine in the early hours of Saturday morning, causing damage and stealing cigarettes and cash.

 

Owner Adil Sipar has released CCTV images in the hope that someone will recognise the offenders who struck at the Christchurch Road store.

He told the Daily Echo: “I have only been here for four months and a lot of places in the area have been burgled.

“I want to warn other people about this so they can be careful and make sure they have enough security.”

In May a hammer-wielding raider fled with £900 in cash after threatening staff at nearby Ladrokes with a hammer.

David Hinde from Portsmouth has since been jailed for 12 years after admitting raids at three different betting shops.

In the latest incident, Mr Sipar said he arrived at work at 6.30am on Saturday to discover police officers on the premises.

He said several different brands of cigarettes were taken and urged anyone who has been offered any for sale to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to call Dorset Police on 101 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.