Security Guards Robbed At Gunpoint In Central

WELLINGTON New Zealand Police

25 August 2006

Three ADT security guards were robbed at gunpoint while walking to fill a central Wellington money machine this morning.

No-one was hurt and no shots were fired. The gunman fled on foot with a substantial sum of money. He is yet to be identified and found.

Wellington Police are appealing for witnesses to the robbery which happened at 9.50am at the ANZ ATM kiosk in the entranceway of The Left Bank shopping precinct in Cuba Mall.

Detective Sergeant Shona Low, Wellington CIB, said the three security guards - two men and a woman in their 20s - were at the door of a purpose built kiosk housing the money machine when they were approached from behind.

"The male offender pointed a sawn off .22 rifle at them and demanded the guards empty money into a large black bag," she said. "The guards did the only sensible thing and obeyed his instructions."

The money was handed over and the gunman was last seen running up Left Bank towards Victoria Street, and turn left down an alleyway towards Ghuznee Street.

He's described as caucasian, of possible Mediterranean descent, had dark eyebrows, short stubble, was of medium build, 175cm (5ft 8in) tall and aged about 30 years. He was wearing a black raincoat zipped to the tope and blue/grey jeans. The bag was a large canvas type that he carried over his shoulder.

Police are not saying how much money was taken except to say that it was "substantial".

Detective Sergeant Low said the security officers were traumatised but were able to raise the alarm.

"The victims only saw one offender. We don't know if the gunman was operating alone or if there were other people involved, possibly waiting in a car in the Ghuznee Street area," she said.

"There were a lot of people around the area at the time of the robbery, some were in nearby cafes having a coffee. These people may be able to help us with information."

Police are asking anyone with information about the robbery, or the possible identity of the offender, to contact Wellington CIB on 04 381 2000.

ENDS

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