Officers attended the pub on Monday, February 9 shortly after the security alarm activated at 5.50am.

It appeared the rear door of the premises had been jimmied open and a number of access points within the hotel had been forced.

Duty officer Chris Varley said police believed the thieves gained access to an area where cash was kept but no money was taken.

“At this stage, there appears to a level of knowledge and planning that has gone into this particular offence,” Mr Varley said.

The Queanbeyan Age contacted the Royal Hotel who refused to comment on the incident.

Queanbeyan Police is appealing to anyone who may have any information or witnessed any suspicious behaviour within the vicinity to contact them on 6298 0555.