Police Investigate Invercargill Supermarket Burglary

Police are appealing to the public for information following a burglary at the Woolworths supermarket in Waikiwi, Invercargill early Friday morning.

The incident happened at about 5.15am at the store on North Road. Investigators say the offenders forced their way inside by using a vehicle to ram the front doors of the supermarket.

After gaining entry, the group stole a large quantity of tobacco and cigarette products before leaving the area in the same vehicle.

Detective Sarah Harper of the Invercargill Criminal Investigation Branch said police are now working to identify those responsible and are asking anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area to come forward.

Police are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have information about the burglary itself, or anyone who may have noticed people in possession of an unusually large amount of tobacco or cigarette products.

Investigators also want to hear from anyone who may have been offered tobacco or cigarettes for sale following the burglary.

As part of the investigation, police are asking residents and motorists in the area to review any CCTV or dashcam footage that may help identify those involved.

Footage recorded on North Road or nearby streets between 4.30am and 6am on Friday morning could be especially useful to the investigation.

Police are also seeking information about a blue Toyota Prado seen in the area around the time of the burglary. Officers believe the vehicle may be linked to the incident and could help establish the movements of the offenders before and after the break-in.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is encouraged to contact police.

Information can be provided through 105, either online or over the phone, quoting file number 260313/4943.

People can also pass on information anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 0800 555 111.