Several businesses across Dundee have been targeted in a spate of break-ins.

The Birkhill Inn, just outside the city, along with Freedom Hair, Meze Grill and The Village Garden in Broughty Ferry, were targeted overnight.

It has not yet been confirmed whether all the incidents are linked.

CCTV footage released by Meze Grill shows two hooded and masked men ransacking the business.

It is claimed the pair then used a fire extinguisher from the restaurant to break into the Freedom Hair salon on nearby Fort Street.

One woman, whose nearby business captured the salon incident on CCTV, told The Courier: “It seems like this was a planned break-in.

“They came along King Street and got out of the car.

“They had balaclavas on and got a fire extinguisher from the vehicle and smashed the window.

“They took two loads of stuff and were here for around six minutes before they drove off.

“It was a white car they were in but I wasn’t sure on the make of the vehicle.

“They used the fire extinguisher like it was a battering ram.”

A spokeswoman from the Meze Grill said thieves used a crowbar to force entry into their premises.

Thankful no staff inside

She said: “It’s sad that this has happened to our premises and other businesses in Broughty Ferry and the Birkhill Inn.

“We’re thankful no staff were in at the time, given these people were in possession of a crowbar.

“They were travelling in a white Ford Fiesta.

“The till drawer, staff tips and an empty safe were taken – one of them even pocketed a beer.

“Whilst we wouldn’t be open on a Monday, we’re now trying to get the locks replaced and the till system replaced for reopening tomorrow.

“The till is connected to our online booking system, we’re hoping there won’t be any impact to trade.

“We’ll still be out of pocket to get the till system replaced though.”

One Broughty Ferry shopper, who asked not to be named, said she was “disgusted” to hear about the incidents.

She said:  “I think many are stunned by just how many businesses were targeted in such a small area.

“I’ve heard folk mentioning the cost-of-living crisis and how desperate folk are but that doesn’t defend these actions.”

Meanwhile the Birkhill Inn was forced to shut at lunchtime on Monday after being targeted.

A Facebook post said: “Unfortunately the Birkie was broken into this morning.

“On top of the damage to the outside of the building, they have destroyed our till system, so we have chosen to close for lunch today.

“This will give us time to get everything sorted so that we can open at 4pm this afternoon for normal service.

“We apologise for any inconvenience.”

Police Scotland has confirmed it is investigating the break-in to Freedom Hair after receiving a report at around 6.40am on Monday.

The force has been asked for comment on the other break-ins.