Detectives are hunting ramraiders who smashed their way into a Benfleet shop early today and stole cigarettes.

Police believe a green M-registration car, possibly a Ford Mondeo, was used during the break-in, which happened just after midnight.

Two men were seen carrying sportsbags leaving the Alldays store in the High Street around the time of the raid. Police believe these two were responsible for the crime and want other witnesses to come forward as soon as possible.

A spokesman for Benfleet police said: "We have no description of the men at present and we are hoping the public will be able to help us with our inquiries.

"An unknown quantity of cigarettes were taken from the store before the culprits sped off in the car used to break in."

Published Thursday, January 16, 2003

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