Thieves steal hundreds of pounds worth of alcohol and tobacco from Lillington shop while owner is at home shielding

Indy Nagra said that two men came into The Top Shop (formerly Londis) in Newland Road at about 3pm yesterday (Tuesday November 17) and loaded up bags with about £300 worth of alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco and then ran off without paying.

Indy's wife Raj, 52, was running the store at the time because he is currently having to shield due to being at high risk of the potentially fatal effects of Covid-19 because he has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Indy said Raj was extremely upset by the incident, which was the first the couple have suffered in the 20 years that they have owned the store.

Indy said: "It's disgusting behaviour.

"Raj was not keen on opening this morning.

"It seems that because we all have to wear facemasks in shops that thieves are using the current situation to their advantage while retailers are providing essential services to their communities and putting their lives at risk.

"But we have been there for 20 years and have known a lot of customers since they were children so she didn't want to let them down."

Any witnesses to the incident can call Warwickshire Police on 101 quoting crime reference number 238 of November 17.

Indy said: "I'd ask other retailers to be vigilant and if anybody is offered cheap alcohol or cigarettes to buy to ask for proof of purchase."