Droylsden Post Office closed after two break-ins cause £8,000 damage

Droylsden Post Office has been forced to close after two-break ins on consecutive nights last week.

The first happened at around 10pm on Wednesday, April 1, with the culprit smashing a front window to gain entry before stealing alcohol and cigarettes.

The culprit returned the next night, at 4.45am on Friday, April 3, and did the same thing again.

Kassh Iqbal, Postmaster and owner of the store on Manchester Road, estimates that fixing the damage and replacing the stolen stock will cost in the region of £8,000.

“After the first break-in I was frustrated, but after the second I was distraught,” Kassh said. “I didn’t have to open the shop; I get paid regardless. I chose to stay open to serve the community because people had asked me to.”

Kassh, who also owns a Post Office on Chorlton Street in Manchester City Centre which remains open, has been left frustrated by the police response to the crime.

He added: “The police have not been very forthcoming. I’ve got CCTV footage of both incidents but they haven’t been to look at it.

“I rang 101 and they were so unhelpful that I’ve put in an official complaint. Only after I complained did they update me on their investigation and request the video footage.”

From the CCTV footage, Kassh believes one man was responsible for both break-ins. The store will now remain closed for the duration of the lockdown.