Thieves broke into Talana Creche in Forestdale on Monday evening, stealing food intended for about 100 children, furniture from an adjoining hall and allegedly attempting to remove water pipes.

Residents who spoke to the Courier said the intruders appeared to have entered through the back of the creche to avoid camera coverage.

Among the stolen items were four 10kg bags of rice, three 10kg bags of mielie meal, two 5kg portions of chicken and two 5-litre containers of cooking oil.

The thieves also took coffee, milk, a recently filled 13kg gas cylinder, six tins of fish and 18 tins of baked beans.

The food is used to prepare meals for approximately 100 children attending the creche.

The community immediately responded with Chan’s Transport coming together with other representatives to donate food stuff to the creche to assist the children.

Residents said the break-in extended to the adjacent hall, where chairs and tables were stolen. The intruders also allegedly tried to steal water pipes.

The theft has raised concern in the community, as the stolen groceries were intended to provide meals for the children.

Residents have urged the community to be on the lookout for anyone attempting to sell the stolen goods, particularly the food items, and to report any suspicious activity to the police.