Police have arrested and charged a 16-year-old male following an aggravated robbery at a commercial premises in Palmerston North at the weekend.
Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thompson says at around 2pm on Saturday 21 February, Police were called to the premises on The Square after a person armed with a knife and hammer entered the store.
“Using the hammer, the alleged offender smashed one of the display cabinets, taking several phones before running out of the store.
“Police were able to identify the youth through various avenues of inquiry, including available CCTV footage.“
The youth was located and arrested yesterday.
He has been referred to Youth Aid.
“These types of crimes are incredibly frightening for those working in the store at the time, and this robbery is no different.
“We understand other store owners would have been unnerved by this occurring. We are hopeful that the quick arrest will go some way to provide reassurance that Police will take prompt action to hold those responsible to account.”
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre