Authorities have released new CCTV footage capturing the arrival of two men in trailers at the Runcorn depot where a significant quantity of Guinness was stolen in what police are describing as a “brazen heist.” Over 70,000 pints of the popular stout, valued at approximately £115,000, were taken from the premises on Monday, August 31. The 800 barrels of Guinness have not yet been recovered, and no arrests have been made in connection with the theft.
Details of the Guinness Theft
The incident occurred at a packaging warehouse owned by Diageo, the producer of Guinness, located on the Whitehouse Industrial Estate in Runcorn, Cheshire. The stolen stout was reportedly awaiting delivery to various pubs. The investigation into the large-scale theft is ongoing, with Cheshire Police actively seeking to identify two individuals seen in the recently released surveillance footage.
According to police reports, the operation involved at least two lorries. The first white lorry arrived at the depot’s entrance around 7:55 PM on August 31. A man exited the driver’s seat and appeared to communicate with someone at the gate before being allowed to enter the site. Later that evening, at approximately 9:12 PM, a second lorry arrived. A different individual was observed interacting with personnel at the entrance before the vehicle proceeded into the depot and attached a trailer. This second lorry departed with its load of Guinness just 18 minutes later.
Abandoned Trailers and Public Appeal
Following the theft, both trailers used in the operation were discovered abandoned in Lathom, near Skelmersdale, Lancashire. This location is approximately 30 miles away from the Runcorn depot. The recovery of the trailers marks a significant step in the investigation, but the whereabouts of the 800 barrels of Guinness remain unknown.
Cheshire Police have issued a public appeal, urging anyone who recognizes the two men depicted in the CCTV footage to come forward. Detective Sergeant McClatchey emphasized the importance of identifying these individuals, stating they are believed to hold crucial information. “Our officers have been following numerous lines of enquiry since the incident was reported to us, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has got in contact so far,” he commented. “However, we will not settle for anything less than the full recovery of the near 900 stolen Guinness kegs and the locating of the offenders behind this brazen heist.”
Identifying the Suspects
The released CCTV clips show the men interacting with gate staff, suggesting a degree of coordination or familiarity with the depot’s procedures. “As our investigation continues, we are now looking to identify the two men captured in the CCTV footage as we believe they hold vital information,” Detective Sergeant McClatchey added. “I’d urge anyone who recognises these men to contact us so that we can progress with our investigation and I would also strongly encourage the men in the footage to please come forward.”
Warning Against Purchasing Stolen Goods
In addition to seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspects, Cheshire Police are also warning individuals against purchasing the stolen Guinness. The force is appealing for anyone who has been approached to buy the Irish stout to report such offers immediately. “As we have previously stated, these kegs are stolen goods that are looking to be sold on by criminals,” the detective explained. “So, we are continuing to urge anyone who is approached by any prospective Guinness sellers to remain cautious and, as always, report any suspicions to police.”
Residents in Skelmersdale and the surrounding areas are particularly encouraged to report any information they may have regarding the missing 70,400 pints of Guinness. The police are committed to recovering the full amount of stolen beer and bringing those responsible to justice.
Conclusion
The audacious theft of a large quantity of Guinness has prompted a significant police investigation, now bolstered by the release of CCTV footage. Authorities are appealing for public assistance to identify two men involved and to prevent the illicit sale of the stolen product. The recovery of the beer and the apprehension of the culprits remain the primary objectives for Cheshire Police as the investigation continues.
