MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Dozens of suspects robbed two gas stations overnight, stealing over $17,000 worth of merchandise, police say.

Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland made a statement saying he’s angry more than anything.

“I mean it’s similar to videos I’ve seen across the country. Those convenience store owners are small business people. I’ve met with them. They have to work there, themselves a lot, just to earn a living,” Mayor Strickland said. “The court system needs fundamental change to adjust to what’s going on out in the community. The police are arresting them. The courts won’t keep them.”

According to reports, just after 10 p.m., a mob of approximately 30-40 suspects entered the Exxon at 3483 Airways Boulevard. The suspects grabbed multiple items of merchandise and ran out of the store.

$2,000 worth of items were reportedly stolen from the first business.

At 11:50 p.m., approximately 40 suspects entered the Fill-N-Go gas station at 3084 South Third Street. An individual inside the business said that one of the suspects came into the store and pointed a rifle at him before leaving.

The victim says that the suspect had on a black Nike ski mask, a black pullover hoodie, blue jeans, and a black bag across his chest.

Police released information on the individual responsible for the aggravated assault. They say he will be in a newer model white Mitsubishi Outlander, possibly with a woman wearing a black pullover, green T-shirt, black tights, and black slides.

The suspects caused approximately $9,000 worth of damage to the second business and stole approximately $15,000 worth of merchandise.

It is unclear if the thefts were caused by the same group of people.