Police have refused to rule out further arrests following a spate of break-ins across Tayside.
The Courier understands officers are working under the assumption the incidents formed part of a three-week crimewave in the region by a wider criminal gang.
A spokesman for the force declined to reveal whether investigators have linked an early-morning raid at Invergowrie Scotmid on Monday with a previous incident at the store just days earlier.
Councillor Angus Forbes, who represents the area, said elderly and vulnerable people living near the shop had been left badly shaken by the incidents.
He said: “They are feeling quite frightened about the fact it’s been targeted twice in such a short time.
“Invergowrie is generally a quiet area with many people who have lived there all their lives and they all look out for each other.”
However, Mr Forbes said he was pleased to see police taking the incident so seriously.
Residents shocked after village store targeted twice in one week
He added: “I have written to Commander Ian Scott of Police Scotland asking him if he can release any information about the crimes which may help allay fears that residents have.”
The Courier revealed how residents no longer felt safe after seeing a number of neighbouring properties targeted in recent weeks.
Two males, aged 15 and 21, have been charged in connection with the October 18 incident, along with a number of others across Dundee and Perthshire.
Shane Reilly, 21, of the city’s Orleans Place, appeared in private at Dundee Sheriff Court on Monday accused of breaking into and stealing from 10 takeaway restaurants and newsagents.
He entered no plea and was returned to custody after being denied bail.
The 15-year-old has been reported to the youth justice assessor.
Two further boys, aged 15 and 17, are understood to be helping police with inquiries relating to Monday’s break-in.
A Scotmid spokesman said: “Once again, we are supporting officers with their investigation and apologise for any inconvenience experienced by customers.”
A spokesman for Police Scotland confirmed investigations are ongoing.
