Have you seen them? Police investigate 'hate crime' and attempted theft at Sunderland Aldi store

Northumbria Police officers are investigating an attempted theft and public order offence – and have released CCTV images of two people the force would like to trace.

The offence happened at the Aldi at Hylton Riverside Retail Park, Sunderland, where it was reported that a man and woman had tried to steal a number of items from the shop.

When they were confronted by a shop worker, the member of staff was subjected to racial abuse, which police say caused “significant distress and alarm”.

The two individuals then left the shop and other members of staff contacted the police.

Northumbria Police is treating the incident, which happened shortly before 2.45pm on Monday, January 6, as a suspected hate crime.

As part of inquiries, police have now identified a man and a woman that officers would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

A force statement said: “They were in the store at the time of the incident and officers believe that they could be of assistance to the investigation.”

The man and woman, or anyone who recognises them, are asked to contact 101 quoting reference 593 060120.

Membrs of the public with any information can also contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively, the public can email [email protected] with any information they may have.