BURGLARS AND WRECKERS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 3587, 15 January 1927, Page 3

BURGLARS AND WRECKERS.

A THREAT CARRIED OUT,

Auckland, January 13.

Burglars paid a second visit within 48 hours to a fruit shop at the corner of Parnell Road during Wednesday night, and although they were again unsuccessful in a search for money, \ a considers ble amount of damage was caused. On the occasion of their first visit on Tuesday night, the intruders left a note for the proprietor stating that if no money were left in the shop when they called again, they would “wreck the show.”

The living quarters, when the tenants arrived this morning, showed that the threat had been carried out diligently. A diamond had been used on several glass doors in various parts of the building, which Is still in the course of construction, and only occupied during the day. Circular cuts were made on the glass, while a large hole was ripped in the main wooden door leading to the shop. Although there was not a large quantity of stock missing, damage was done to goods. Ripe tomatoes had been taken from the shelves and placed on the concrete floor, together with a quantity of 'ehocolales, and the whole'tramped into a thick mass. Fruit and vegetables were strewn on the floor, while loaves of bread had been torn apart and thrown about, opened, and placed on the counter with straws protruding from them. The opportunity was taken to enjoy another meal in the living room. The table was again carefully set with, cutlery, a duster serving ns a tablecloth. The remains of several chops were found on two plates, while tomatoes had also been secured from the shop and cooked. Articles of food were strewn about and butter had been thrown against the walls. The diners also consumed strawberries and ice cream.

No attempt was made to steal the large amount of stock, although numerous small paiekets of chocolate are missing. A presentation fountain pen is also missing.