Bomb threat investigation commenced

Wellington Police want to identify the male depicted in CCTV footage from today's attempted bank robbery at the National Bank on Featherston Street, Wellington.

Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Borrell says a bomb detection operation commenced involving a full evacuation of the bank and some surrounding buildings. A thorough search was completed by specialist Police staff including bomb detection and search experts.

He says no devices were located during the search and Police have now launched a full criminal investigation into the incident, which caused major disruption to Wellington's CBD for several hours.

"Thankfully, no one was hurt during the incident. We are thankful to members of the public who stayed away from the CBD when asked by Police during the evacuation and search."

The evacuation was sparked when a threat was received by National Bank staff and appears to be part of an attempt to rob the bank.

Police are interested in speaking with the male depicted in the attached image who was seen outside the National Bank just prior to the incident at approximately 2.40pm. He is described as:

• Male with olive skin. • Thin build. • Approx 170cm tall. • Aged in his mid 20s. • Short dark hair, wearing a light coloured baseball cap or similar. • Wearing a waist-length red jacket possibly with white logo on left breast, blue jeans, light coloured sports shoes. • Wearing a dark coloured backpack.

Members of the public with information about the incident or knowledge of the male's identity are urged to call Wellington Police on 0800 TIPOFF (0800 847 633).

Ends

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