POLICE in Warrington are seeking help from the public and video footage following a burglary at Stockton Heath Fire Station involving the theft of cutting equipment.
At around 7.20 am today, Friday 3 April, officers were called to reports of a burglary at the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Station on Ackers Road, Stockton Heath.
The caller reported that unknown offenders had forced entry to the building overnight. Once inside, the offenders stole cutting equipment from the station.
Enquiries in relation to the incident are ongoing, and detectives are urging anyone with any information or footage that may help their investigation to contact Cheshire Police.
Detective Chief Inspector Katie-Louise Allen said: “As part of the investigation, I am keen to hear from anyone who was in the area around the time that the burglary occurred and believes they may have witnessed something suspicious.
“Some of the stolen equipment is used by our colleagues at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service when rescuing casualties trapped in vehicles that have been involved in collisions and can be vital lifesaving equipment.
“I would urge members of the public to be wary, as we believe the offenders may try to sell on the equipment – if the price seems a steal, it probably has been stolen.
“If you think that you have any information, CCTV, or dashcam footage that could help our investigation, please get in touch.”
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Area Manager Steve McCormick said: “It is deeply disappointing that one of our fire stations was burgled overnight. This incident has a significant impact on the Service, both financially and operationally.
“We are doing everything possible to support the police with their investigation and urge anyone who witnessed suspicious behaviour in the area to get in touch.
“Most importantly, we want to reassure the public that the area is still covered and we will continue to attend incidents across Cheshire as normal.”
Anyone who may have noticed anything suspicious or may have information which could help officers with their enquiries is asked to contact Cheshire Police via www.cheshire.police.uk/tell-us or call 101 quoting IML 2301534.
Information can also be passed on anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
