TWO thieves were caught on the roof of a shop as they left with their loot.

One of the raiders was only 16 and a hole had been cut in the shop roof to carry out the crime.

In the dock at Dunfermline Sheriff Court for sentencing were Cameron King, 22, of Lochgelly Road, Cowdenbeath, and the youth, now aged 17, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

They admitted previously that on July 19 last year, they broke into the Mini Market shop, Deas Road, Inverkeithing, and stole a quantity of alcohol, cigarettes and money.

The court heard previously that there was significant planning involved.

Depute fiscal Dev Kapadia told the court that police officers became suspicious after seeing a light on in the shop.

They called for back-up and the thieves were then seen emerging from a hole in the roof carrying bags of cigarettes and alcohol. The youth was found to be in possession of more than £300 in cash while King had £220.

Another £142 was found lying on the roof. Inside the shop there were more items in bags ready to be removed.

The court was told that they had chosen that shop as it had been broken into previously and no-one was caught for it.

The youth also admitted a separate offence that on May17 this year, in Rosyth, he acted aggressively, shouted, swore and uttered threats of violence.

Sheriff Alastair Brown imposed restriction of liberty orders; four months for King and six months for the youth.