CCTV appeal: Police Hunt Suspect After Cigarette Theft Spree in Deeping
A CCTV appeal has been issued by Lincolnshire Police following a spate of cigarette thefts across three local shops in the Deeping area. Officers are urging the public to help identify a man believed to be linked to the incidents.
The thefts all took place on Wednesday, 9 July. In each case, a man reportedly asked to purchase five packs of cigarettes. But when staff placed the cigarettes on the counter, he bolted — taking the goods without paying.
These swift grab-and-run incidents happened at:
- The Co-Op on Bourne Road, Morton
- The Family Shopper on High Street, Market Deeping
- Marville Store on Crowston Way, Deeping St James
Police are now keen to speak to a man captured in CCTV images in connection with their inquiries.
A Lincolnshire Police spokesperson said: “We have carried out numerous lines of enquiry, and we would like to speak with the man in the images below who we believe might have information to assist our inquiries.”
“Do you recognise this man or have any information on these incidents? We would like to hear from you as you might hold vital information for our investigation.”
“Please get in touch. You can do this in several ways: “You can email PC Charlotte Thurston from our Response Investigation Team on [email protected]. Please refer to ‘Niche 25000401113 / 25000401091 / 25000401064’ in the subject line.”
“You can also report anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.”
Police believe the same individual may be responsible for all three thefts.
Locals are being asked to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious. The appeal remains open as investigators seek to identify and question the man pictured.
This incident highlights the growing trend of opportunistic thefts targeting smaller community retailers. Lincolnshire Police are actively working to bring the offender to justice and prevent further incidents.
Anyone with information is urged to act quickly.
