Thieves Brazenly Steal Cigarettes from Co-op in Leigh-on-Sea

Shoppers Shocked as Robbery Unfolds in Broad Daylight

In a bold midday robbery, two thieves stole a large quantity of cigarettes from the Co-op supermarket on Leigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea, as stunned shoppers looked on.

 Caught in the Act

The incident took place around 12pm on Friday, when the two men walked into the store and made their way behind the counter. One suspect distracted a staff member by asking for assistance, while the other emptied the cigarette shelves into a bag. He was then joined by his accomplice to help carry out the loot.

Leigh Co-op in Leigh Road targeted by cigarette thieves | Epping Forest  Guardian

According to reports, Co-op staff stepped aside, choosing not to confront the suspects for safety reasons. They immediately contacted Essex Police.

 Investigation Underway

A spokesperson for Essex Police confirmed:

“We’re investigating a burglary at a business premises in Leigh Road, Leigh. When one suspect asked a member of staff to get something, he went behind the counter and gathered a quantity of cigarettes. He was then helped by the second man to load the cigarettes into a bag. Both men then left the shop.”

As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and urging anyone with information to come forward.