Glasgow burglars target east end cafe and shops during Storm Eowyn
Police are hunting two would-be burglars who tried to break into multiple businesses in Glasgow's east end while staff were at home as Storm Eowyn raged.
The "low" suspects targeted Jeanie's Coffee Shop, Hoolit Gifts and Magazine and school uniform supplier Aspire Academy in Baillieston on Friday, January 24 during the red weather warning.
The duo damaged doors, smashed glass and pulled off sink taps in toilets during the rampage but failed to get inside the three businesses and steal anything.
READ MORE: Glasgow soft play boss caught with child sex abuse images bought infamous death house
READ MORE: Fundraiser launched for young Larkhall man who died following flat incident
But the damage forced the businesses to close due to the subsequent police investigation, having already lost business as a result of the storm.
It is understood there are potentially two female suspects.
John Devaney who co-owns Jeanie's with his husband Stephen said they have lost takings due to the closures on their "busiest days" of Friday and Saturday.
Describing the incident John said: "Our cleaners came in at 5pm and doors were smashed and the place was a mess. Forensics came on Saturday. It puts you on edge. I have gone from being shocked to angry."
Expressing gratitude for the "support" received after the incident by Jeanie's, which also runs a community hub, John added: "We take pride in what we do and we care about the people who come in."
Join Glasgow Live's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
Hoolit co owner Carole Waddell said: "I think it is really low. They are taking advantage of an already bad situation. I am annoyed and angry. It is hard enough as a small business."
Baillieston councillor Kevin Lalley said: "You have local businesses serving the community. Not only do the businesses suffer but the community suffers as well."
He added: "People take pride in Jeanie's and Jeanie's takes pride in the people."
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 6.20pm on Friday, 24 January, 2025, police received a report two commercial premises were broken into on Glasgow Road, Baillieston. Enquiries are ongoing.”
Sign up to our daily Glasgow Live newsletter here to receive news and features direct to your inbox