Wednesday, May 23, 2007

$300,000 fashion raid

A HYDE Park high-fashion boutique had more than $300,000 worth of clothing stolen early today.Thieves used a sledge hammer and bolt cutters to smash the front gate and glass door of Xile fashion store on Unley Rd about 4am.

Police said at least two men were involved in the heist of handbags, men's suits and women's jackets.

The most expensive imported items stolen include a gold Cavalli jacket valued at $4500 and a $5000 Versace handbag.

Manager Sandy Porcaro said there is a huge demand for the products on the black market.

"It is extremely upsetting," she said.

"This is pretty identifiable stock.

"I imagine they came in and cased-out the place beforehand because the targeted all the new season stock."

Ms Porcaro said some of the stock had to be ordered internationally 18 months ago making it "almost impossible" to replace.

"Racks of Dolce & Gabbana suits were taken and they range between $2000 and $2800 each," she said.

"We have very good security here but there's only so much you can do."

Detectives and forensic investigators examined the scene and it is believed the burglars made earlier attempts to gain entry to the building through the roof.

The robbery comes only three months after thieves smashed their way through the front door of Alexis George Boutique on Unley Rd.

About 130 hand-made designer dresses valued at more than $200,000 were stolen.

Police arrested two men and seized almost 100 of the stolen dresses after help from the public led them to raid a house in Holden Hill on March 21.

Police said the dresses were being advertised on E-bay and sold with the original store labels still in tact.

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