Huge sum of vapes stolen in targeted thefts across Glasgow

A huge sum of vapes have been stolen in targeted attacks across commercial businesses in Glasgow’s south-side in the past couple of months, reports said.

Between 10 December and 10 February, ten businesses in Shawlands, Govanhill and Castlemilk, have been broken into in the early hours of the morning. On each occasion e-cigarettes, collectively valued at a five-figure sum, have been stolen.

In the last theft, a masked gang of three men were seen entering a store on Cathcart Road, near Preston Street, around 5am.

Detective Constable Andrew Lambie, said, “From our investigation so far, we believe the incidents to be linked and each premises specifically targeted.

“Until very recently we did not have any description of those involved, however, in the last housebreaking at a store on Cathcart Road near Preston Street, Govanhill, three masked men dressed in dark clothing are seen to enter the premises around 5am and then they get into a light-coloured car and drive along Cathcart Road towards Govanhill Park.

Officers are appealing for assistance from the local community about the incidents which took place in and around Sinclair Drive, Cathcart Road, Pollokshaws Road, Kilmarnock Road.

“We’d also be keen to hear from any shopkeepers in those areas to come forward if for example, they may have disturbed people out with trading hours or noticed anyone or vehicles loitering at their store locations. Police have been providing security advice to the shopkeepers involved and would urge other similar businesses to review their security arrangements and to contact police if they have any concerns,” Lambie said.