Cameras see thieves scooping up cigarettes at southeast Fresno markets

Fresno police are looking for a trio of cigarette thieves who they believe are responsible for recent break-ins at three small markets.

The latest theft happened Oct. 22 at a mini-market at Tulare Street and Peach Avenue. Cartons of cigarettes worth about $1,000 were stolen. Police shared security video from two of the break-ins.

The other two break-ins occurred within past three months, also at small markets in southeast Fresno. Police Sgt. Mark Hudson said the thieves have used the same methods: crowbars and bolt cutters to get into the store, and large plastic trash cans into which the cigarette cartons are stuffed.

Police described the suspects only as Hispanic males. Anyone with information about the burglaries or suspects can contact police detective John Mendes at 559-621-6311 or call Crime Stoppers at 559-498-7867.

This story was originally published October 27, 2015 at 5:53 PM with the headline "Cameras see thieves scooping up cigarettes at southeast Fresno markets."