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Raiders armed with hammers strike twice within minutes on Hagley Road

Raiders armed with hammers struck twice within minutes at two nearby shops near Bearwood yesterday.

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First, masked men with hammers and a screwdriver stole takings from the till and a safe at Ladbrokes, in Hagley Road West, Quinton, shortly before 8pm.

Twenty minutes later a gang armed with hammers and a knife raided Tesco Express, in Hagley Road, Edgbaston, close to the Kings Head pub.

Five men ran into the supermarket and threatened staff for money before making a getaway.

West Midlands Police are investigating both incidents and say they are trying to find out whether the two incidents are linked.

Kate Baker, a spokesperson for the force, said no-one was injured in the raid at Tesco Express.

"It is understood the men - all of whom are said to be black - threatened staff for money before leaving in a black Vauxhall car," she added.

"Enquiries are underway to try and identify those responsible.

"Detectives are looking into whether the raid may be linked to another robbery just 20 minutes earlier at a branch of Ladbrokes in Hagley Road West where masked men armed with hammers and a screwdriver stole till takings and money from the safe.

"Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Sergeant Toni Holl in West Midlands Police by calling 101 or they can contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111."

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