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Detectives investigating two suspected ram raids in Sunderland have released a picture of the damage caused as they appealed to the public for information

Officers were called to Spar store on Hylton Road, Sunderland at 11.40pm yesterday after a car had been driven into the shutters of the store, before making off empty-handed from the scene.

Three hours later, shortly before 2.45am today, officers received a report that a car had been driven into the shutters at Sainsbury’s on Station Road, Fulwell, causing significant damage.

The store is open which remains open to supply "essential items" during the coronavirus outbreak

Thieves forced their way in and stole a quantity of alcohol, before fleeing the area in the same vehicle.

The care was found burnt out in Ridley Street, in the Southwick of the city area a couple of miles away.

Inquiries are ongoing into both incidents which we are currently treating as linked. Detectives have now asked for anyone with information to come forward and assist with the investigation.

(Image: Russ Durham)

Detective Inspector Neal Craig said: “These are very serious incidents which have resulted in significant damage to two stores.

“It is especially disappointing that criminals have carried out these offences at a time when there is increased demand on supermarkets and crucial local services."

He added: "An investigation has been launched into these two incidents, which we are currently treating as linked, and a team of detectives are now carrying out a range of enquiries to identify those responsible.

“Anyone who is found to have been involved can expect to be dealt with swiftly and robustly – and I would like to reiterate that this type of criminality is totally unacceptable.

“I would now ask anyone who has information about either of these incidents to come forward and contact us. Your information could prove the key to ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact us via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on our website quoting log 77 270320. Alternatively, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.