In a Grinch-like act just weeks before Christmas, heartless thieves have targeted a beloved Geelong toy store, making off with a haul of Lego valued at around $10,000.
Brazen Overnight Burglary on Main Street
The burglary occurred overnight at the Main Street Toy Store located in the Geelong suburb of Belmont. Police believe the offenders forced their way into the shop, focusing their efforts on the store's premium Lego section.
Store owner, Chris Shaw, expressed his devastation upon discovering the break-in on Tuesday morning. He described the thieves as specifically targeting high-value Lego sets, clearing out entire shelves of the most sought-after and expensive items.
A Targeted and Costly Heist
The stolen merchandise was not random. The culprits showed a clear preference for exclusive and costly sets. Among the missing items are numerous Lego Icons sets, including the large Titanic model and the detailed Eiffel Tower, which can retail for hundreds of dollars each.
"They knew what they were after," Mr Shaw stated, highlighting the calculated nature of the crime. The loss is a significant blow to the small, family-run business, especially during the critical holiday trading period.
Community Impact and Police Investigation
Victoria Police have confirmed they are investigating the burglary and are appealing to the public for information. Detectives are urging anyone who witnessed suspicious activity around the Main Street area of Belmont overnight on Monday or in the early hours of Tuesday to come forward.
They are also asking the community to be vigilant and report anyone attempting to sell large quantities of new, boxed Lego sets through unofficial channels or online marketplaces.
The theft has saddened the local community, for whom the store is a cherished destination. This incident serves as a stark reminder for small businesses to review their security measures as the festive season approaches.
