An attempt by burglars to steal thousands of pounds worth of computers was averted in Bury St Edmunds this weekend after an intruder alarm activated.

The incident occurred around 12.10am Sunday, January 19 at the premises in Out Risbygate.

The offenders gained entry to the site by cutting through a fence and then climbed onto a flat roof and forced open two windows. They then removed 15 Apple iMac computers, with a combined value of £30,000, before activating the intruder alarm.

Police attended the premises within a matter of minutes and the suspects were seen to be making their escape. Despite a search of the area with assistance from the police helicopter and dog unit, they were not located.

Officers discovered a Honda CRV parked nearby with four iMacs in the boot. A further six iMacs were located on a path at the rear of the building and five more were recovered from the roof.

Detective Sergeant Tam Burgess of Bury St Edmunds CID said: “The benefits of a having a burglar alarm installed are clearly demonstrated in this case, as the offenders would have likely escaped with all the computers that were ultimately recovered by our officers, whose quick response ensured that they left empty-handed.

“I would strongly urge any establishment that possesses high-value equipment to install an intruder alarm and regularly review the security of their buildings.”

Anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area or who has any information about this crime is asked to contact DC Mike Chapman at Bury St Edmunds CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Further advice on burglar alarms and crime prevention can be obtained on the Suffolk Constabulary website www.suffolk.police.uk or by calling your local Crime Reduction Officer on 101.