Police are appealing for witnesses following an arson attack that caused £30,000 in damage to the Bayleaf Indian takeaway restaurant in Ongar High Street.
The incident, which took place between 11pm on Thursday and 3.45am the next morning, resulted in serious fire damage to the upper storey of the building and has forced the restaurant's closure.
Sgt John Cousins said that the raiders were thought to have gained entry by forcing open a first floor window and that fire investigators believe an agent similar to paraffin was used to start the blaze.
He said that a number of items valued at £765 had also been stolen from the premises prior to the fire being set.
These included a television, a cash box containing £65 and some soft drinks - along with frozen supplies of chicken, lamb and king prawns.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Epping CID via the Harlow switchboard on 01279 641212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
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