Phone Zone in Rolleston has barely been open for 2 weeks, but that did not stop offenders smashing their way into the store early this morning.

CCTV footage shows a group forcing entry just before 2.00am, using tools to break the glass.

They attempted to smash the display cabinets but failed, before ripping out the till and fleeing the area in a vehicle.

Police said they were notified of the burglary at a commercial premises on Rolleston Drive at around 1.55am.

“Four people allegedly entered the store and targeted cash and other items before leaving the scene.”

When Chris Lynch Media arrived, Police forensic staff were already at the store taking fingerprints.

Police said one youth has since been located and taken into custody and is due to appear in Christchurch Youth Court at a later date.

Enquiries are continuing to locate the remaining offenders.

The store owner said the Rolleston community had been incredibly supportive, but the timing could not have been worse.

He said his other Phone Zone store in South City was targeted by youth offenders in November in a similar style attack, which he believes is linked.

Despite the damage and disruption, the owner said he is determined not to let the crime get the better of him.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact them through 105, either online or by phone, quoting reference number 260116 slash 7672, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.