Police Appeal following Violent Burglaries in Wollerton
Source: West Mercia Police Website, 5th April 2012:
Three burglars brandishing a machete and a baseball bat forced their way into the properties at around 9am today.
The occupants at both premises were assaulted but are not thought to have been seriously injured. A man and a woman were taken to hospital from one address for treatment for cuts and bruises and a woman at the other home was tied up but not believed injured.
Detective Inspector Pete Brophy said: “This is a serious incident in which violence was used. I am appealing for any information which might assist the investigation.
“In particular, we want to hear from anyone who spotted suspicious activity in or around Wollerton either last night or before 9am today involving three or more men.”
He said both homes had been ransacked by the offenders and a number of items stolen, including laptops and mobile phones. A black Land Rover Discovery was also taken from one of the addresses which was abandoned nearby a short time later.
DI Brophy said: “The black Discovery was found at around 9.30am outside Wollerton Farm by the 30mph signs on the outskirts of Wollerton. It appears the culprits had another vehicle waiting at this location which might have been parked there overnight, or left there earlier today.
“I am appealing for witnesses who may have seen the Discovery being abandoned, or who spotted another vehicle parked up there at some point either last night or this morning.
“Anyone who thinks they might be able to assist the police should contact CID at Shrewsbury police station by calling 101.”
Information can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.
Issued: Thursday, 05 April 2012
A report of the incident appeared in the Shropshire Star. It can be found here.
A further report appeared in the Star on Friday, 6th April here along with a comment in the first part of their Leader column here.
Follow up stories have been published by the Star on the following dates: 7th April (1), 7th April (2), 9th April & 10th April.