LEADERS across Romsey have condemned a group of criminals who burgled a department store this week.
Hampshire police confirmed an investigation was launched to find the culprits after they forced their way into Bradbeers Department Store, Bell Street, on Monday between 5am and 5.30am, and stole an unknown quantity of perfume.
Officers revealed a Land Rover Discovery was spotted parked at the rear of the store between the public toilets and the back of Boots the chemist.
Residents with information are now being urged to come forward in a bid to catch the offenders.
MORE - Police probe burglary at Bradbeers Department Store
Cllr Sandra Gidley, who represents Romsey Abbey on Test Valley Borough Council, slammed the gang for targeting the business, fearing it could encourage others to follow suit.
She said: "With people struggling in lockdown, I hope this is a one-off incident and not the beginning of something, because it is frustrating for all hardworking businesses when they are targeted in this way.
"It must be a very hard time for businesses at the moment and it does not help anybody when this happens, so this is really disappointing.
"I think a lot of people will be quite shocked, because this is not something that happens every day in Romsey."
Cllr John Parker, who represents the Romsey Tadburn ward, said it was alarming to hear Bradbeers was attacked, but hopes the police can track down the group.
He said: "It is rare for this to happen and, as other shops have discovered to some extent, it is key to have adequate security these days.
"I am not sure what the security is like at the back of Bradbeers, but this must have been planned by the group as it doesn't seem like an off-the-cuff incident.
"We will have to wait to see if the police come up with any other evidence."
MORE - 'It is a despicable act': Community leaders react to Romsey Abbey burglary
Mayor of Romsey, Cllr Janet Burnage, claimed the store's CCTV could help locate the gang.
She said: "At a time when so many businesses and retailers are struggling it is saddening to read the reports on this burglary from a town centre retailer.
"I understand that the store has CCTV and I hope that with the help of the public and cameras that the perpetrators will be caught."
A spokesperson from Hampshire police said: "Did you see the vehicle in this area around this time? Perhaps you captured it on Dash Cam, or [have] mobile phone footage.
"Did you capture the vehicle registration number, or perhaps you can describe the occupants?
"This incident is under investigation and our enquiries remain ongoing."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44210019533.
Alternatively, you can contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymous on 0800 555 111, or via their online form at http://orlo.uk/clG2k.
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