In the early hours of Monday, December 22, a group of four masked men launched a violent ram raid on the Co-op store located on Market Square, Newent. Wearing dark clothing and balaclavas, the gang forcibly entered the supermarket using weapons and proceeded to attempt to break open the store’s ATM with circular saws.
Though no money was stolen, Gloucestershire Police report that significant damage was inflicted upon the premises during the botched burglary. The suspects fled the scene in a black car, prompting a police appeal for witnesses.
Officers urge anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam or CCTV footage from the area around 12:35 a.m. to come forward. The police statement highlights the seriousness of the incident and the ongoing investigation to identify those responsible.
READ MORE: Train Passengers Advised to Prepare for Christmas Travel Disruptions
READ MORE: Gloucester’s Financial Crisis Unlikely to Disrupt County Council Reorganisation, Says Leader
Those with information can report details to Gloucestershire Police by quoting incident 9 of 22 December, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.