POLICE are warning the public to be on their guard after 100 potentially deadly thunder flashes were stolen during a town centre raid.

The Thunder Flash MK4s were taken last week, between 3.30pm on Tuesday and the same time on Thursday, when burglars got into First and Only Airsoft in the former Friars Walk Shopping Centre in Reading. The offenders climbed onto the roof and down an air vent to get in and then smashed their way through an internal fire door.

The 100 thunder flashes, which make a loud bang when lit and thrown, have had their lids removed and are faulty. They have all been used but failed to go off when primed and were returned by the buyers.

Thames Valley Police said: "They are extremely dangerous and if they are lit, or come into contact with a spark or fire, there is a chance they could explode and cause serious injury."

They are urging anyone who finds the thunder flashes, or is offered them for sale, to contact police immmediately to arrange immediate and safe disposal.

Contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org