Cold-hearted thieves have stolen a collection box containing hundreds of pounds destined for the family of a murdered shop worker.
Mahesh Wickramasinghe died after being stabbed in the neck by a masked man in a Liverpool newsagents just three weeks ago.
The 30-year-old had been working to support his family back in his native Sri Lanka, and generous customers had kindly donated money to help them out.
However, two youngsters, thought to be around 16 years old, entered the Stanley News shop, on Kingsway, Huyton on Sunday 18 December and callously stole the fund.
While one of the yobs distracted the shop's owner, Dr Gunapala Welhengama, the other grabbed the box, before both fled the premises.
Dr Welhengama, 61, said: "How low can people go? We are all sickened.
"Mahesh was killed in cold-blood just weeks ago and to have this happen is the ultimate insult.
"How could somebody do this? His family have nothing, he worked to support them.
"It’s absolutely disgusting. We want these two people brought to justice."
Police have vowed to catch the criminals responsible, and have urged the public to come forward with any information.
Inspector Paul Sutcliffe said: "This is a despicable crime.
"Members of the community had generously given their money to help the family of Mr Wickramasinghe, who have been left without a son, a father and a husband.
"Mr Wickramasinghe would send his earnings home to his family and they will be deeply affected by his loss.
"The money being collected for his family would have been a great help to them.
"We are appalled that these callous people have stolen this cash, and urge anyone with any information about who is responsible to call us so we can take action."
Merseyside Police have charged 19-year-old Sam Harrison with the murder of Mr Wickramasinghe on November 29.
He is due to appear at Liverpool Crown Court for a preliminary hearing on January 3 having been remanded in custody.
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