Eggs stolen in raid on production plant

A reported 12,000 eggs were stolen or destroyed in a raid on an egg production unit in Surrey.

Police say that the raid took place late at night ’ between 11.30pm and 11.45pm - at a farm in Tadworth. Some eggs were destroyed at the scene, where the suspects threw the eggs at a farm building. The thieves then made off along the farm track. Police have not given an exact number ’ they say only that several dozen trays, each containing 30 eggs, were removed ’ although unconfirmed reports suggest that as many as 12,000 eggs could have been involved in the raid.

Thirteen people have since been arrested. All have been released on police bail whilst officers continue their inquiries.

Surrey Police released more detail about the incident, itself. They said that the occupants of five cars arrived at the farm via a single lane track and began smashing windows on an egg sorting building. Access was gained to the building and a number of trays of eggs were removed. Police said the suspects began throwing eggs at the building before making off along the track.

They said that when officers arrived at the scene two vehicles attempted to escape but collided with each other. Some eggs had been thrown over a nearby motorway bridge between junctions nine and eight of the M25, they said. Thirteen suspects were arrested on suspicion of burglary, criminal damage and endangering road users.

The senior investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Glenn Parker, said, ’We have a lot of work to do to unravel exactly what happened at the farm.

’Although it’s a rural location I am appealing to any motorists who were travelling on the M25, between junctions 9 and 8 around the time of the offence, who may have seen eggs being thrown onto the motorway or their vehicle was hit by an egg to come forward.

’It is not yet clear precisely how many eggs were damaged during the burglary but several dozen trays, each containing 30 eggs, were removed.

’I appeal to anyone who has any information regarding this incident, no matter how small it may seem, to come forward. The victim has spent many years building up their business and we will work hard to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.’

Reigate and Banstead Neighbourhood Inspector Richard Haycock said, ’The Safer Neighbourhood Team will be visiting the property, providing reassurance and also advising on potential ways to improve security measures.

’A number of arrests have been made but it is vital we ascertain a clear picture of events and I would appeal to anyone who may know who was involved, or perhaps hears people bragging about being involved, to speak with an officer or Crimestoppers if you wish to remain anonymous.’

Those arrested included three women, aged 17, 18 and 19, from Sutton, Surbiton and Epsom, and 10 men, aged between 16 and 21, from Epsom, Carshalton, Sutton, Malden, Morden and Surbiton.