Police are appealing for information from the public following the aggravated robbery of Price Cutters on Longfellow Avenue, Maraenui, Napier.
A man in his 20s entered the store at about 1pm today armed with a hand gun and confronted the sole female store attendant.
The offender stole cash and tobacco products and left on foot.
Napier Police responded immediately and carried out area patrols to find the man.
Approximately two hours later a person of interest was found and was subsequently arrested for the robbery.
The store attendant was physically unharmed and is being offered Victim Support.
A scene examination has been carried out at the store and enquiries are continuing to recover the stolen property.
This is the second robbery at the shop within five weeks.
The store had very good CCTV coverage and these images greatly assisted in the early apprehension of the man.
“The promptness, determination and knowledge of all Napier Police staff who attended this incident is to be applauded,” says Senior Sergeant Mark Clayton of Napier Police.
“Aggravated robberies are unacceptable. Like business owners, Police are concerned about the economic and social impact these have on our communities.
“We are committed to preventing crime and victimisation in order to be the safest country. Police will continue to work alongside business owners to help them to protect their properties and their livelihoods,” he says.
Any witnesses to this robbery are encouraged to ring Detective Sergeant John McCarthy of Napier Police 06 873 0561 or make an anonymous call to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Police Media Centre