UPDATED Sunday 15 June, 6:00pm

Police are investigating a series of coordinated break-ins after four Ballina businesses were hit in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The first break-in occurred at Captain Snooze on Kerr Street around 12:30am, followed by three food court outlets at Ballina Fair Shopping Centre just before 2am.

At Ballina Fair, glass panels were smashed at The Coffee Club, Sushi Don, and a neighbouring takeaway. In both locations, the thief stole cash, although attempts to access a safe inside one store were unsuccessful.

The break-ins were caught on security cameras, but the suspect was heavily disguised in a hoodie. Police have not yet released the footage publicly.

Police confirmed late Sunday that cash was taken from both Captain Snooze and the food court businesses, and issued a reminder to all business owners not to leave money on premises overnight.

By 8:30am, when Ballina News Daily visited the centre, glaziers were already replacing the damaged panels. The cleanup was underway, and all affected stores were back open by lunchtime. The damage bill is expected to run into the thousands.

The incident has rattled the local business community. One store owner said it felt more like something out of a “western NSW town where retailers are forced to install shutters.”

“Hopefully this is a one-off and not a sign of things to come — especially when we know local police numbers are stretched,” the retailer said.

Police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Reports can be made anonymously.