SAFES stolen, windows smashed, steel doors forced – traders want burglars caught after a series of raids in Bournemouth town centre’s Triangle.

At least six shops have been targeted in the past two months.

Mr Lall from Uptown Girl clothes shop said: “They damaged the window but they couldn’t get in because of the bars.

“We had to replace the whole window. There’s been quite a lot of break-ins.”

A staff member at London Off Licence in St Michael’s Road opposite, who declined to give his name, said: “We had an attempted burglary about a week ago. They smashed the window.”

David Williams from The Watch Shop around the corner in Commercial Road, said: “They smashed down our steel door and got away with a lot of stock about six weeks ago.

“There’s been people trying to get into shops all over the place. We’ve never had one before. I’m sure the police are doing their best.”

A Dorset Police spokesman said there had been a burglary at The Branksome Arms at the start of May. The crooks got away with cash and alcohol.

The spokesman confirmed another bar had its safe stolen at the start of March.

George Dixon, owner of Cafe Batastini, said: “It seems to have been ongoing over the last few months.

“There was an attempted burglary here – it looks they tried to use a crow bar.

“We’ve beefed up our alarm because of it and we have a new camera system.”

Dorset Police crime figures for April show four burglaries or attempted burglaries in The Triangle, and two more on St Michael’s Road.

Sgt Anna Harvey said: “We don’t believe these incidents are linked but anyone with information should call us as soon as possible.”

If you have any information regarding the incidents, contact Dorset Police on 01202 411 255 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.