A vape store in Lower Hutt was allegedly burgled just two days after opening, with three people reportedly breaking into the premises and stealing stock.
According to a report by 1News, the store on Taita Dr in Avalon was targeted at about 2.30 am on Thursday, with CCTV footage showing display cases being smashed as items were taken from the shelves.
Store owner Dennis Desai said the business was still in the process of getting ready when the alleged burglary occurred.
"We were still stocking the shelves. We hadn’t even fully opened and settled into the business yet," Dennis Desai said today on social media.
"We have worked extremely hard to open this store and bring something new to the local community. To see it damaged and robbed almost immediately is heart-breaking," as quoted by 1News.
According to 1News, Desai said the business would rebuild and urged anyone who had information about the incident to contact police.
"Thank you to everyone in our local community who has supported us, especially those who have reached out after hearing what happened.
"Two days open. Robbed on day two. But we’re not giving up," as quoted by 1News.
Police confirmed officers were investigating a reported burglary at a commercial premises on Taita Dr.
A police spokesperson said officers were "making enquiries" into the incident, which was reported at about 2.30 am, as reported by 1News.
"Anyone with information that could help should get in touch through our 105 service, quoting reference number 260910/9590," as quoted by 1News.
The store owner has vowed to "rebuild" and "come back stronger" following the incident, 1News has reported.
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