Pubs on busy Midlands roads targeted by burglars
Gangs of burglars are striking at pubs across the region, breaking through doors late at night and disabling security systems before making off with thousands of pounds from safes inside, police have revealed.
The Queslett pub in Great Barr, The Dog in Warley and The Man On The Moon in Kings Norton in Birmingham have all been hit in the past few months.
Crooks made off with £10,000 cash from The Dog , £10,500 from the safe from The Queslett and £8,000 from the safe from The Man On The Moon,
It is believed they are being targeted because all are on busy roads.
They are among 13 drinking venues which have been hit this year, seven of which are in the West Midlands and the others are spread across Staffordshire and West Mercia.
Detective Sergeant Michael Greenland said: "We can confirm we are investigating reports of a string of pub burglaries across the West Midlands, Staffordshire and West Mercia.
"It is not yet known why the pubs have been targeted, but we are working closely with other forces to catch the offenders.
"Our officers have liaised with Mitchells & Butlers and while their security is generally good, they have taken on board suggestions for improvement.
"We would urge anyone with information to contact their local police on 101."
Sally Ellson, a spokeswoman for Mitchells & Butlers which runs both pubs under the name Ember Inns, said: "Unfortunately as the investigation is ongoing we can't comment any further.
"The police are dealing with all inquiries."
A man has been charged in connection with three of the burglaries, at The Queslett on July 30, and The Dog in Warley on September 10 and The Man On The Moon on September 24.
By Alex Homer
