A ruthless criminal gang who used chainsaws to carve their way into Sainsbury's supermarkets during a £2 million burglary spree have been jailed for a total of 19 years.
Shocking footage captures the moment the brazen thieves operated industrial chainsaws to cut through shutters and security doors in a series of coordinated late-night raids.
The four-strong gang, described by police as highly organised and dangerous, targeted multiple Sainsbury's locations across England, making off with enormous hauls of cash, cigarettes, and alcohol.
The Violent Spree
Their crime wave reached its climax during a particularly violent incident where they threatened staff with weapons before fleeing with their loot. The gang's modus operandi involved:
- Using powerful chainsaws to breach security shutters
- Targeting multiple Sainsbury's stores across different counties
- Stealing high-value goods including cigarettes and alcohol
- Employing threatening behaviour towards staff members
Police Investigation and Sentencing
Thames Valley Police led a major investigation that ultimately brought the gang to justice. Detective Inspector James Mather described the group as "prolific offenders who showed complete disregard for the law and the safety of store employees."
Following a thorough investigation that included CCTV analysis and forensic evidence, all four men pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary. The court handed down sentences totalling 19 years, marking a significant victory for retail crime prevention efforts.
The sentencing serves as a stark warning to organised criminal groups targeting retail establishments across the United Kingdom.
