A 32-year-old Hastings man has been arrested in connection with the alleged 
robbery of two elderly women on Monday afternoon.

It’s believed that the women may have drawn attention of the man because 
they had won money on gambling machines.

It is understood the man then followed the women - who were traveling from 
Hastings back to their home - and intercepted them, taking their belongings 
and money.

One of the women was treated in hospital.

“As a community we condemn this behaviour, as it strikes at the heart of 
some our most vulnerable people” says Detective Sergeant Phil Sayers.

Victim Support are assisting both women.

This appears to have been an opportunistic offence and is not thought to be 
behaviour prevalent across Hawke’s Bay.

The man is due to appear in the Hastings District Court tomorrow (Thursday) 
on robbery, driving, and other charges.

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