Exclusive by Rachel Hovenden

Officers investigating a string of cigarette thefts from shops across the county have renewed their appeal for witnesses.

Seven people, all from the Dartford area and aged between 20 and 35, have been arrested on suspicion of theft in connection with the incidents.

All seven have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

There have been a total of 44 reports of cigarette thefts from shops across Kent since the first report in October 2011 at a shop in Meopham.

Incidents have occurred in Medway, Maidstone, Dartford, Gravesham, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Whitstable.

The total retail value of stolen cigarettes is more than £250,000.

Detective Constable Craig Malthouse said: “A team of officers are investigating the reports and believe all of the incidents are linked.

“Those responsible have caused a lot of harm and damage to a number of innocent shopkeepers and the sooner we can get them off the streets, the better.

“I would urge anyone with information about the thefts and anyone who knows of unopened packets of cigarettes being offered for sale in suspicious circumstances to contact police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Craig Malthouse on 101.

For more see next week's Gravesend & Dartford Messengers.