Gold Coast tobacconist rammed by ute with false plates

Police are hunting three thieves over a ram raid at a tobacconist store on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

The gang targeted the Gold Puff tobacco shop on Peachey Road, Ormeau, about 3am, by driving a white Toyota Hilux ute into the premises.

The entire operation was captured on CCTV cameras.

Sparks could be seen flying outside the shop as one thief used a grinder to get rid of bollards.

Another was seen using a hammer to clear security cameras.

Once the bollards were removed, the ute ploughed straight into the shop’s roller doors.

An alarm was triggered as the door was removed.

Once inside, the offenders cut open an ATM and seized cash before leaving in the vehicle.

The business owners said it was the fourth time they had been targeted.

“We try our best to prevent any break-ins in the future but I mean, it is what it is,” a fried of the owner told 9News.

Police said the white Hilux used in the raid had fake number plates.

No other items were taken during the robbery, police said.