Police Reinforce Security Message After Two More Robberies

New Zealand Police Waikato News Release
9:23am 17 September 2008

17 September 2008

Hamilton Police are reinforcing the message on the importance of small businesses taking safety and security precautions after two more aggravated robberies in the city overnight.

Officer in charge of Hamilton CIB, Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Page, said the first robbery happened at the Video Ezy Store in Dinsdale about 9.45pm.

"A man has entered the store and confronted the owner with a knife making demands before the owner managed to escape and call Police.

"The offender has fled and a short time later a a dark coloured sedan was seen speeding away," said Mr Page.

Officers investigating this incident were then called to a second robbery on midnight after reports the Mobil Service Station on Clyde St in Hamilton East had been robbed.

"In this incident a man has waited for the shop to empty before presenting a knife to the attendant and demanding cash and cigarettes," said Mr Page.

"Again, when the offender fled a short time later, a dark sedan was seen leaving the area."

Police are reiterating yesterday's call to service station operators and small business

owners to ensure all steps are taken to minimise risks and keep their staff and premises secure.

"In line with this we're also asking for the public to support the service stations by acknowledging the need for using night pay windows," said Mr Page.

Police are calling on anyone who may have witnessed either robbery, seen the dark sedan or knows the identity of those responsible to contact them.

Information can be left with Detective Sergeant Neville Ross of the North Hamilton Community Policing Centre on 07 8546105.

Alternatively information can be left anonymously on the confidential crimeline, 0800 Busthem (08002878436).

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