CITY PERFUME inside Stockland Merrylands was targeted in a rapid break-and-enter incident, with three men allegedly forcing their way through the store's metal security screen and stealing a collection of expensive fragrances.

According to CCTV footage reported by news.com.au, three male suspects approached the perfume store after it had closed. The footage reportedly shows the group using their hands and feet to pull and force the metal security screen until they managed to gain entry. Two of the men then allegedly entered the store, while the third remained outside and appeared to act as a lookout.

Once inside, the two men allegedly moved quickly through the store and removed high-end fragrances from the shelves. The actual theft reportedly lasted only around 30 seconds after the security barrier was breached. Police are now examining the available CCTV footage and other evidence as part of their investigation.

The stolen products included some of the store's most expensive fragrances. The retailer said between 15 and 20 bottles were missing while staff were still completing an inventory. Among the products allegedly taken were Parfums de Marly, with individual bottles reportedly valued at around $500 to $600. Other brands mentioned include Tom Ford, Giorgio Armani and Dior Sauvage, with some of those products valued in the hundreds of dollars per bottle.

The store estimates that the value of the stolen perfumes is more than $10,000. When the damage to the security door and other losses are included, the total financial impact has been estimated at approximately $18,000.

The incident has also caused disruption to the business. Staff reportedly kept the store closed the following morning while waiting for police investigators to attend and examine the scene. Because the store could not immediately resume normal trading, the retailer said it was also experiencing additional financial losses.

The store's marketing manager said the offenders appeared to know which products they wanted, targeting some of the most expensive fragrances rather than simply taking items at random. The retailer also said there had been previous shoplifting incidents, although the latest break-in was considered significantly more serious because the offenders allegedly forced their way into the closed store.

NSW Police confirmed that officers from the Cumberland Police Area Command have commenced an investigation into an alleged break-and-enter at a perfume store inside a shopping centre on McFarlane Street, Merrylands, shortly before 7pm. Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or has relevant information to come forward.

Investigators are expected to examine CCTV footage from the shopping centre and surrounding area to identify the three men and establish their movements before and after the alleged theft. Information from witnesses may also help police identify the vehicle, route or other people connected with the incident.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the three men have not been identified or charged in connection with the alleged theft at the time of reporting. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police or Crime Stoppers.