York Christmas Market stalls suffered a string of break-ins over the weekend, with traders revealing that 17 businesses were targeted.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening after the markets had closed for the day.
The thieves managed to get away with cash left in some of the stalls, but reportedly no stock was stolen.
Traders have raised their concerns over the level of security since the incident, with hopes of an improved system to deter any similar scenarios in the future.
It’s believed that the perpetrators operated in a group to commit the crimes.
The markets are manned around the clock with a 24-hour security system. However, reports suggest that a security guard on duty was purposely distracted.
Whilst one member caused a scene and led the guard away from the stalls, others swooped in and gained entry to the kiosks.
One trader told YorkMix: “They were quite neat breaking in so they were obviously only after cash. We had some cash taken, but only small amounts, which is the same for most as you don’t leave cash in overnight.
“There was no other damage to goods, when I heard what happened I was expecting to walk into a mess but the stall was left neat and tidy.”
The business owners believe the break-ins were pre-planned.
Many locks were broken and one padlock was completely ripped out of the wood.
Although the thieves didn’t manage to get away with large amounts of money, there’s a general feeling of unease between the traders.
One businessman feels the security in place currently insufficient, especially when the rent rates cost thousands per chalet for the 5½ week duration.
The Christmas Markets will remain on Parliament Street for just one more week and close this Sunday (22 December).
We have contacted North Yorkshire Police and Make It York for any information on the break-ins, and will update the story once we receive this.