An entire shop front has been torn apart in a suspected ram raid.

Police were called to North Fleet Food & Wine in the High Street, opposite the Hive housing estate in Northfleet following reports the off-licence had been targeted and a cash machine stolen just after midnight.

KMTV report from the scene of the ram raid

Two suspects reversed a white Ford transit van into the shop front three times causing extensive damage.

Straps were used to pull the cash machine out of the shop before it was dragged by the van along the High Street and then on to College Road. The van was believed to be in convoy with a blue Ford Fiesta.

The van was discovered abandoned in Lodge Lane, Cobham with the cash machine inside.

Local resident William John Lane said a police helicopter was seen circling the area around 1.30am.

He said: "All I know is that last night Northfleet Food & Wine store, had someone attack the store ripping the store front almost completely off and the cash machine inside is gone.

"Police had the helicopter overhead for around 15 minutes, it flew off then came back again about 15 minutes later and was flying about.

"There were several police cars in the area buzzing about as well.

"The cash machine hasn't been working for months so I doubt they found any cash."

JJ Saied, owner of Blades barbers next door, said he arrived at work this morning to find the area taped off by police.

"I came in about 8.30am and there was police everywhere," he said.

The hairdresser said it was a "shock for everyone" but it is not the first time shops there have been targeted.

He added: "People have tried to break into my shop before but not like this."

Next door to Blades, a fried chicken shop has also been subject to a spate of attacks in recent years.

The owner tried to sell the business after a string of anti-social issues including the front door being smashed.

He reported to the police the till drawer had been removed, containing the day's takings, as well as a charity box with money inside.

Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to call the appeal line on 01474 366149 quoting reference 46/227195/19. Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

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