The owners of a popular Italian restaurant in Halswell have spent Sunday cleaning up after 7 offenders forced their way into the business early this morning, leaving behind thousands of dollars in damage.

The group stole bottles of alcohol and ransacked much of the Amore restaurant, taking whatever they could.

The owner, who did not want to appear on camera, said it was the second break in in just 2 months.

He said his family were devastated by the damage left behind and wanted firmer action against this type of offender.

Police confirmed to Chris Lynch Media they received a report of the break in at 12:40AM.

No arrests have been made.

Footage from inside the restaurant shows the offenders breaking in and causing significant damage.

Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.