A helicopter used by police to trace thieves in the north-east was seen hovering over Northfield yesterday morning as police found a stolen car which they believed was used in an armed robbery.
Officers were last night hunting for six men involved in two raids on Aberdeen stores on Tuesday evening.
Two men stormed into Gaitside Stores in Garthdee and threatened workers at around 7.15pm.
After they were unable to make off with anything they fled empty-handed in opposite directions.
Just 35 minutes later four thieves entered the Stocket Parade store near North Anderson Drive where they are understood to have used an axe to terrorise staff.
After raiding the tills and seizing items on display they fled the scene.
Just half an hour later a gray Hyundai – reported missing on Monday – was found on fire on Barvas Walk.
Police believe the car may have been involved in the theft from the Stocket Parade store and are “keeping an open mind” on whether the two thefts are connected.
Detective Inspector Lee Jardine said: “Four male suspects entered the shop a short time before 8.00pm.
“All were wearing dark clothing and had their faces covered.
“The suspects threatened staff with weapons before running from the shop.
“At about 8.20pm a grey Hyundai i30 registration MW60 FPE was discovered ablaze on Barvas Walk, Aberdeen and we are currently investigating if these incidents are linked.”
Last night police issued a fresh warning to north-east residents to ensure their properties, vehicles and valuables were securely locked up.
Two vehicles were stolen from the area in the early hours of yesterday morning – a black Ford Focus from Fraserburgh and a Citroen DS3 from New Deer.
Detective Inspector Stuart McAdam urged people to keep their homes and belongings safe.
He said: “Please ensure the doors and windows to your home, vehicle or any outbuildings are locked and secure at all times, even if you are at home.
“Tackling acquisitive and opportunistic crime is a priority for North East Division under Operation Magpie and a huge amount of preventative and proactive work is being carried out on a daily basis.
“We will continue to use all available resources and tactics available to us to detect those responsible, including use of the Police Scotland helicopter.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101.