Burglars use boulder to smash into two shops

Footage has been released of a group of bandits using a boulder to break in to a laser clinic in Melbourne.

The break-in took place on August 12 on High Street in Kew.

The group used the rock to smash through the glass doors, stealing prescription items and destroying equipment.

Director Mathew Jafarzadeh estimated the break-in cost between $150,000 to $180,000.

The burglars then drove up the street to an optometrist, again using a boulder to break in before stealing stock.

A worker on High Street witnessed the men flee the scene in their getaway car and followed them.

However, he was forced to abandon his pursuit when the burglars saw him and tried to ram his car.

It is the latest in a spate of break-ins at cosmetic and medical businesses in Melbourne's inner east.

The gang remains on the run.

Anybody with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.