Isle of Wight Police are investigating a report of criminal damage at a shop in Shanklin High Street.

Windows were smashed at M & M Wardle newsagents at approximately 12.45am on the morning of Monday, November 9, 2009.

Targeted Patrol Team (TPT) officers were on the scene within five minutes of the crime being reported.

Bill Pinnell, the Eastern Sector Inspector for the Isle of Wight Safer Neighbourhoods teams, said: 

“Police are keen to trace a person seen running along Steephill Road in Shanklin shortly after the damage was reported. The suspect was described as a white male, wearing a dark coloured baseball cap, and a black rucksack on his back. Officers are making forensic, house-to-house and CCTV enquiries in the area.

“I would like to thank members of the public who have given information to the police already, and we are encouraging anyone with further details or who may have noticed anyone acting suspiciously in Shanklin High Street late on Sunday night or the early hours of Monday morning to make contact.”

Inspector Owen Kenny of the Isle of Wight Public Protection Unit (PPU) added: 

“Officers are aware that the owners of the damaged shop are Asian. There is no evidence at this time to confirm a racially aggravated motive for this damage, or any links to other offences. However, if a victim believes a crime is racially aggravated, the police will treat it seriously in accordance with a high set of standards.

“Very few hate crimes happen on the island, but officers take a zero tolerance stance whenever they are reported. There is a dedicated Isle of Wight Public Protection Unit (PPU) that includes a specialist team of officers with experience in overseeing successful investigations into these types of offences. Safer Neighbourhoods teams also meet with community groups regularly to support mutual understanding and respect between people of different generations and backgrounds.”

People with information can phone the Shanklin Safer Neighbourhoods team at Shanklin Police Station on 101. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000. From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, call police on 0845 045 45 45.