Police appeal for information after robbers make off with thousands in Pambula cigarette heist

A pre-dawn robbery at a sleepy south coast tourist spot might have netted thieves tens of thousands of dollars after a group of robbers made off not with jewels or money, but cigarettes.

An early morning robbery in a quiet south coast town might have netted a group of robbers thousands after the three men made off not with jewels or money, but cigarettes.

Emergency services were called to the FoodWorks grocery store on Quondola St in Pambula shortly after 3am on Monday after reports of a break-in.

Police were told the thieves had forced their way inside the usually sleepy tourist town store, before fleeing on foot with about $80,000 worth in cigarettes.

A police spokesperson could not confirm how many packets were stolen.

Images released by south coast police identify three men investigators believe might be able to assist in their investigation.

The first man is described as wearing black tracksuit pants, a black hooded jumper with high visibility “V” stripes on the front and white writing on the back.

The first man identified by police is described as wearing black tracksuit pants, a black hooded jumper with high visibility “V” stripes on the front and white writing on the back.

The second man is described as wearing dark parts and a dark-coloured hooded jumper with a white “Air Jordan” on the front.

The third man is described as wearing a dark coloured hooded jumper, grey tracksuit pants, and white shoes.

Anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Merimbula Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.