Six Christchurch businesses targeted by thieves in 90 minutes

Six Christchurch businesses, including liquor stores and a pharmacy, have been targeted by thieves early this morning – all within the span of 90 minutes.

Police believe the incidents may be linked.

Two allegedly stolen vehicles were involved in the first three break-ins on Ensign St around 5.40am, Senior Sergeant Stephen McDaniel said.

Shortly after, one of the cars was used to gain entry to a Wigram liquor store before being abandoned.

The second vehicle was spotted on Queen Elizabeth II Dr following another burglary on Hawke St around 6.40am. The vehicle was not pursued due to the "dangerous driving behaviour", he said.

Around 30 minutes later, the vehicle was found abandoned on Dunbarton St in Redwood, close to where another vehicle was stolen.

"We are following every line of inquiry available to us to locate the people we believe are responsible," he said.

"Part of those inquiries are establishing what has been taken, but the value of what has been stolen will not come close to the damage that’s been caused to hard-working businesses."

Anyone with dashcam or video footage of the incidents or had information that could assist with their inquiries was asked to contact police at 105 or anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.