Overnight three businesses in the greater Launceston area have been targeted by thieves.

At approximately 1am this morning police were notified of a burglary in progress at the Evandale IGA Supermarket, Russell Street, Evandale.

It is believed the offenders are a group of men who have forced entry to the premises and stolen a quantity of cigarettes and confectionary items.

Witnesses have reported seeing a white Toyota Camry fleeing the scene.

A second report of a burglary in progress at the IGA Supermarket, Brougham Street, West Launceston, was received at approximately 1.40am.

The cash tills in this premises have been removed and an unsuccessful attempt to open the store ATM has been made.

The offenders have fled the scene in a white vehicle which has been reversed into the supermarket doors causing extensive damage, in the process of fleeing.

About an hour later police received reports of a third burglary, at the Southside Supermarket, Hobart Road Youngtown.  It is believed the offenders have attempted to use the vehicle to crash through the front glass doors of the premises.

Entry was not gained however the vehicle has caught fire, completely destroying the vehicle and causing substantial fire damage to the store.

It is believed that a group of between 3 – 5 men are responsible for these burglaries and they were utilising a vehicle stolen from a Mowbray residence on Monday.

The previous night three additional business burglaries occurred that are also believed to be linked.

The Norwood IGA, where a quantity of soft drink was stolen and attempts were made to open a safe; Roadside Products in St Leonards where a quantity of cash and some electronic items were stolen and The Kings Bridge Bar in Paterson St where a safe was entered and a quantity of cash stolen.

Police urge business owners to refrain from storing cash on premises overnight and bank daily takings whenever possible.

Anyone who witnessed or has information in relation to these incidents, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Launceston Police on 6777 3911.