Burglars target Crawley Co-op stores and string of others in nearby towns

Police say that 10 break-ins were reported between December 14 and 15 and they believe that all the incidents are linked. Detectives are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

Two Co-op shops in Pound Hill were targeted along with one in Ifield Drive, and one in Brighton Road, Horley. Four Co-ops in Horsham were broken into, along with one in Forest Row and another in Haywards Heath.

Police say that a number of the incidents were attempted break-ins, and nothing was stolen. However, a quantity of cash was snatched from a till during one break-in in Horsham.

And, they say, a further incident took place on December 17 at B&M in County Oak, Crawley, where two tills were stolen.

Police say that no arrests have been made so far.

Detective Inspector Martin Drabble said: “We are treating these incidents seriously and there will be an increased police presence around the affected stores. Our investigation is ongoing.

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“If you have any information, you are urged to contact police online or call 101 quoting Operation Forge.

“Alternatively, witnesses are also asked to contact Crimestoppers to help our investigation.”