The ‘sole-less’ raiders were disturbed while targeting an HGV that was parked at Annandale Water Services at Johnstonebridge about 1.40 am on Tuesday morning. But although the lorry driver was asleep in the cab, the gang managed to gather a haul of 17 pallets of Veja brand trainers, valued at £100 a pair, before they were interrupted and drove away.
Police say the curtain side of the trailer was cut open and the French footwear was taken from pallets inside. They are now appealing for witnesses and are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the getaway vehicle – a 7.5 tonne truck.
Constable Calum Benson at Lockerbie said: “It appears that the shoes stolen were loaded into another lorry which had been driven alongside the targeted lorry. “The shoes, both men’s and women’s, are all French made and the value of the haul is in excess of £125,000.
“The thieves drove off in a 7.5 tonne rigid lorry which had a white cab and a blue body when they were disturbed. “I am keen to hear from anyone who may have used the services in the early hours of the morning to get in touch if they saw or heard anything suspicious.
“Anyone with information which can help up catch those responsible can call us at Lockerbie on the 101 number, quoting the reference number 0259 of December 17. Anyone who wishes to pass on information and remain anonymous can do so through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
- Pictured above, PC John Cowan at the service station
