Shop Keeper Threatened With A Knife In West Belfast Robbery

Detectives have launched an investigation following an armed robbery at a commercial premises in the Suffolk Road area of west Belfast, after a staff member was threatened with a knife.

Detective Sergeant McPhillips said: "We received a report around 3:30pm on Sunday, December 02, that a man had entered a shop, grabbed a staff member and threatened them with a knife.

"The suspect, described as being approximately 6' tall, of medium build, aged in his 30s and wearing a red coat, dark-coloured bottoms and a monkey hat, then fled with a sum of money and cigarettes.

"This was a frightening ordeal for this staff member who was doing their job. Thankfully, they were not physically injured, however they have been left badly shaken by this despicable act."

Police later arrested a 31-year-old man on suspicion of robbery and possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable act. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Anyone who was in the Suffolk Road area shortly before or around the time of the incident is asked to contact detectives at Musgrave Police Station on the non-emergency line 101, quoting reference number 892 of 02 December.



(JG)