SportsPower Rochester targeted in early morning theft

"The investigation remains ongoing, detectives are making enquiries in relation to several other offences that may be linked to this incident," the spokesman said.

"As the investigation remains ongoing it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

June 7: ANOTHER Rochester business has been targeted by thieves, the second in two weeks.

SportsPower Rochester part-owner David Pain said the offenders caused thousands of dollars of damage when they hit the business about 3.40am on Sunday.

It comes a week after thieves broke into Rochester Community House and stole items including a safe.

Related: Rochester Community House robbed: thieves steal safe, trolley

Mr Pain said the thieves had knocked down the sports store's back door, causing quite a bit of structural damage.

He said there was also stock missing from the store room.

"We are unsure with the total amount of damage and stock we have lost but they caused thousands of dollars in damage," he said.

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Mr Pain said he was saddened by the callous act on a family business.

"This is just so disappointing to see that there are humans out there who can do this type of damage and stuff to a community," he said.

"We have just come out of a seven-day lockdown where we had no income for a full week and everyone is doing it tough with COVID."

Mr Pain said the community was now on high alert after thefts at the store and the community house.

"We are more alert to anything that may be going on, noticing things during the day and anything suspicious now," he said.

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"Please keep an eye out in the community for suspicious activity, if you see something that you think is strange or suspicious just call Crime Stoppers."

Rochester police said they were aware of both incidents.

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