South Norwood businesses hit by overnight smash-and-grab raids

Independent businesses in South Norwood, Croydon, suffered overnight break-ins on Sunday, November 8, with damage estimated to cost more than £1,000 to repair. The burglar appeared to steal less than £50 in cash across the targeted premises. Alex Defrim Hajdari, owner of Grand Café 241, stated the incidents make it harder for his family to keep their business open and that he is "scared to go home" and leave the business unattended.

The businesses targeted along Selhurst Road, near South Norwood Clocktower, were largely cashless. Grand Café 241 was broken into at approximately 3:55 am, with Mr Defrim Hajdari arriving at the scene around 4:20 am. He reported that his till was taken and his printer broken, with approximately £35 in personal cash stolen. The damage to his café alone is estimated at £1,000.

Mamma Dough, a pizza restaurant, was reportedly targeted next at approximately 4:05 am. A door was smashed, apparently with a rock. Marta Duras, 23, a representative for Mamma Dough, stated that nothing was taken from the restaurant, but the door repair could cost around £600. Margiana, a family-run café, was the final business targeted, with a break-in occurring at approximately 5 am. The glass front door was broken, and the burglar attempted to open the till with a screwdriver. Besir Pasli, son of the owner, reported that only about £10 in tips and a bag of pennies were taken, with significant mess left behind.

Pattern of Crime in the Area

Little Mouse Cheese and Wine, an independent shop further down Selhurst Road, has been targeted twice previously this year. In July, three men reportedly stole wine and caused thousands of pounds in damage. In October, the shop was again a victim of a smash-and-grab, with little stolen but considerable damage caused. The business stated it was working with its landlord, the police, and local representatives to improve security.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated that officers received reports of two businesses being burgled around 5 am on Sunday, November 8. The force indicated that enquiries, including CCTV and forensic opportunities, did not provide viable investigative leads due to the suspect appearing to wear gloves and a mask. Officers are continuing to engage with businesses in the area to offer crime prevention advice. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 4306/08NOV, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.