Masked gang raid bike shop in Manchester

A gang of masked thieves smashed into a cycling shop with a sledgehammer before riding away on bikes worth around £5,000.

The raid at King Kog Cycles in Prestwich was captured on the store’s CCTV system.

The footage shows six men, all with their faces covered, were involved in the break-in and subsequent theft, which is all over in a matter of minutes.

One of the gang, believed to be armed with the sledgehammer, takes at least six swipes at the glass front door after a crowbar was used to prise open the metal roller shutters.

Gang members then run inside and help themselves as the shop’s alarm sounds.

Five expensive mountain bikes were taken in total - believed to be worth in the region of £5,000.

Two belonged to customers of the independent store on Bury New Road, which sells new and used bikes and cycling accessories. The gang also left behind the sledgehammer they used.

The store’s owner has appealed for anyone with information about the whereabouts of the five bikes to come forward, amid fears they could be offered for sale on the black market. He said police have been informed and are investigating.

Images of the stolen bikes and footage and still images of the raid have been posted on Facebook by the store and shared widely.

The gang stole three GT bikes, a Saracen and a black Fuel 8 Trek bike.

The raid happened at around 11pm on Saturday night.

King Kog Cycles said on Facebook that a reward for information would be offered.

A spokesman said:

The gang appear to be all wearing gloves, with hats or coat hoods covering their faces.

• Police confirmed the burglary took place and appealed for anyone with information to contact GMP on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.