Post office targeted by brazen thieves

A GROUP of grinches has struck Ingham, snatching Christmas cards and gifts.

The Australia Post office in Lannercost St was broken into between 4.45am and 5.30am yesterday with thieves taking mail and parcels.

Inspector Graeme Paine said Australia Post was not yet able to assess how many items had been taken.

Insp Paine said the thieves climbed on to a bin to smash a window and gained access to the post office.

“Australia Post at this stage isn’t aware how much has been taken because forensic examination is still under way,” Insp Paine said. “There was some blood left at the scene so we do have some options and investigative angles to pursue.”

The sloppy thieves left a trail of discarded mail and parcels behind as they fled.

Police followed the trail to a nearby skate park, leading them to believe the offenders ran off in that direction.

They have called for anyone who saw people around the post office or skate park early yesterday to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Police Link on 131 444.

With gifts often being exchanged through the post this time of year, Insp Paine recommended people did not send cash in the mail.

He also advised telling people of when to expect parcels and to avoid leaving mail in the letterbox overnight.

Insp Paine said once forensic investigations were completed, Australia Post would look into identifying people whose mail was taken.

An Australia Post spokesman encouraged anyone with concerns about their mail delivery to contact 13 POST.