Warning as raiders target businesses

A senior police officer has issued an urgent warning to businesses in Saddleworth villages after a spate of raids.

Insp Danny Milovanovic, who is in charge of policing in Saddleworth and Lees, has ordered a crackdown after the latest two break-ins in Delph and Denshaw.

And police are working on a theory that attacks on a bakers shop in Delph and the Co-op store in King Street, which took place overnight Tuesday, could be linked.

Offenders broke into the bakers using ladders to climb up to the first floor, breaking in through the window, then stealing a small quantity of cash.

On the same night, thieves targeted the Co-op store by ripping the grille from the back door.

Once inside, they attempted to cut the wire mesh to another internal door but were unsuccessful and fled empty-handed.

Earlier in the month, the Junction Inn in Rochdale Road, Denshaw, was burgled when thieves broke into the cellar and stole a large amount of money.

And burglars forced open a door at the rear of the Black Horse pub, Oldham Road, Denshaw, and stole a quantity of notes and coins from the till.

Insp Milovanovic said extra officers would be drafted in to keep watch on village premises.

“However, it’s essential that shopkeepers make sure all their safety precautions are in place when they shut up at night,” he said.

“We would advise them to check over all locks, windows and security systems at their premises — and make sure alarms are on — before closing up.

“Businesses and locals need to be extra vigilant and report anything suspicious they may see immediately.”