AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after thieves raided a shop in Tillicoultry, stealing the safe and its contents.

The culprits targeted Greens, based on Hill Street, during the early hours of Monday, September 16.

Having broken in to the store, they then "forcible removed" the safe, which was said to have been bolted into the flooring.

While they shop's alarm system was activated, police did not arrive in time to catch the thieves.

Officers have since issued a public appeal for any information as inquiries continue.

A spokesperson from the shop told the Advertiser: "They broke in through a fire exit [and] caused some damage.

"I don't know how, but they forcibly removed a safe that was physically bolted to the floor."

The staff member also explained that the shop was temporarily closed following the incident, but it has since reopened.

Addressing the impact the break in has had on the business, the spokesperson added: "Repairs have already taken place, and that comes out of the pockets of a local community store."

A police memo given to Neighbourhood Watch Scotland: "Between 12.30am and 1.30am, Greens was broken in to and a safe containing a sum of money was stolen.

"The shop alarm did sound at the time, however, the suspects left prior to the arrival of the police."

A spokesperson for Police Scotland confirmed: "Police were called to a shop on Hill Street at around 7.50am on Monday following a report of a break-in and theft.

"Officers attended and enquiries are ongoing."

Anyone with information that could assist police with their investigation is asked to contact them on 101, quoting incident number 0676.

Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.