Canterbury Police are carrying out a scene examination today following an aggravated robbery at the Phoenix Bar at around 10pm last night (6 December 2015).
Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Cottam said that two men have entered the bar. “One is understood to have been armed with a firearm and the other with a screwdriver. They have then confronted the staff and patrons in the bar at closing time.”
“The two men have forced the duty manager to open a safe, removing a small amount of cash, before leaving in a silver Subaru Forester station Wagon registration FUU396 (photo attached). The vehicle used in the robbery had been stolen from a public parking area on Riccarton Avenue earlier that day at around 3pm (6 November 2015).”
Detective Senior Sergeant Cottam urges anyone who saw this vehicle, recognises the people in the photographs or has any information relating to the robbery to contact Police so that those responsible can be held accountable for their actions.
“Of huge concern is that the firearm was discharged during the robbery putting innocent lives at risk. While no-one was physically injured during this incident it was an extremely traumatic event for the staff and patrons who were in the bar at the time and they are being supported by Police and Victim Support. Everyone has a right to be safe and feel safe and this sort of behaviour will not be tolerated.”
In the lead up to the busy festive period Police urge the public and businesses who handle cash, such as bars and dairies, to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Police straight away.
Anyone with any information about the Phoenix Bar robbery, the identity of the people in the photographs or sightings of the Subaru station wagon is asked to call the Metro Crime 5 team at Christchurch Central Police Station on 03 363 7400.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-nz.org
Media note: Due to operational commitments Detective Senior Sergeant Cottam is not available for interviews this morning.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District
