Thieves were shamed into an apology after their victim posted images of the crime on Facebook.

Four men, believed to be in their 20s, stole two CCTV cameras from outside a flat in the Broadway, Sheernees.

Unfortunately for them, the recorders captured their villainous deed on film.

Peter Apps, owner of the security devices, decided to go public with the damning footage.

Mr Apps, 67, said associates and relatives of the camera snatchers were among those who shared and commented on his video footage which he posted on Thursday.

“I don’t think the lads realised it was all being recorded when they stole the cameras,” he said.

"It must have come as a nasty shock when all their friends and family started having a go at them on Facebook..." - Peter Apps

“And it must have come as a nasty shock when all their friends and family started having a go at them on Facebook.”

Mr Apps, an author, said it was loved ones’ peer pressure which forced the thieves into contacting him to offer an apology.

“They’ve all been in touch and promised to pay me back,” he said.

“They said they’d been chasing another guy who lives in a flat near mine when one of them decided to be clever.

“I can’t have my stolen cameras back cause they ripped the wires out when they took them.”

Mr Apps said he will be replacing the cameras which cost £50 in total, and hopes the thieves are as good as their word.

“As long as I’m paid back, I’m quite happy,” he said.

“If they don’t, police want a copy of the video along with their names and addresses.”

He added: “I started off feeling furious and helpless, but when it started going mad on Facebook I started enjoying myself.

“I’ve seen stuff on Facebook where all sorts of accusations are made about people.

“But in this case, the videos spoke for themselves.

“I’m grateful for everyone who helped.”

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