UPDATE, 4.15pm: Police have released CCTV footage of the ram raid in the hopes the public can help catch the offenders.
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Detectives believe the offenders used a stolen cordless angle-grinder with the name 'Ivan' written on it in order to remove the cigarette cabinet. The name 'George' is inscribed on the battery.
Police have also confirmed the ute was found burnt out on Daly Road about 6.25am.
Skipton Roadhouse manager Prajith Billakanti told The Courier on Thursday afternoon that the business had been severely impacted.
When he received a call early this morning to inform him of what had occurred he was "completely shocked and very sad".
The business was closed this morning while crime scene investigators scoured the premises.
Opening this afternoon, Mr Billakanti said staff have only been able to sell packaged products such as confectionery and petrol, not any hot food due to the smashed doors.
"They made a big mess for us to clean up. We have been cleaning up glass for hours," he said. "This is a big thing for us."
The business has been operated by its current owners for the past two years.
Warrnambool Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating and have released images of the men who may be able to assist their enquiries.
WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW
EARLIER: Police are investigating after thousands of dollars worth of cigarettes and cash were stolen after a service station was rammed at Skipton last night.
Police said two vehicles were driven to the Skipton Roadhouse about 4.25am.
Three offenders wearing hooded jackets then used a single cab light coloured Ford Ute with an aluminium tray to ram through the window.
The offenders then stole cigarette cabinets and the roadhouse till.
While a total has not yet been confirmed, police are estimating the amount stolen was in the range of $20-25,000.
The offenders then drove off in both the ute, which sustained significant damage, and a dark coloured Holden Commodore.
Nobody was working at the roadhouse at the time.
Police are currently canvassing CCTV footage.
Anybody with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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