Detectives are appealing for information to trace a vital witness after thieves stole thousands of pounds worth of cigarettes in Claygate.


The incident happened at the Co-operative store in Hare Lane at about 12.20am on Friday, August 17.


A group of four or five men forced open a door to gain access to the building before carrying out an untidy search and stealing a large quantity of cigarettes.


The men got away in a silver Mazda 626 parked in an alleyway next to the store and almost hit a pedestrian walking down Hare Lane before driving toward Esher at high speed.


Detective Constable Chris Ewan, leading the investigation, said: “This was a targeted and well planned burglary.


“I need to speak with the pedestrian who was almost hit by the vehicle used by the offenders as matter of urgency as that person could be able to provide crucial information to assist with this ongoing investigation.


“I would also like to speak to any Claygate residents who saw or heard the burglary taking place or saw where the vehicle used by the suspects went following the incident.”


Anyone who witnessed the burglary or with any information on the silver Mazda should call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference EL/12/5390, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.