Counties Manukau Police have arrested and charged two males in relation to the aggravated robbery of a Pakuranga superette shortly after 7:30pm yesterday.
The store owner and a customer were in the superette when three males entered, armed with a pistol and a metal bar.
The customer was assaulted during the robbery and demands were made for money.
The offenders then fled the store to a nearby vehicle, driven by a fourth associate, and fled the scene at speed.
A male member of the public followed the offending vehicle for some time until it came to a stop and one of the occupants got out and presented a pistol at him. The member of the public tried to leave hastily and at about the same time his rear windscreen shattered.
Police are yet to confirm how the windscreen actually shattered and are exploring several possibilities.
The four offenders abandoned their vehicle a short distance away and two were located by police at this time. The two offenders are both male, aged 17 and 18 and will be appearing in the Manukau District Court today facing a number of charges, including assault with intent to rob, threatening to kill, and commission of a crime with a firearm. Further charges may follow. Police also recovered an air pistol from the offending vehicle.
The store owner and the customer escaped serious injury but were extremely shaken by events and are being counselled by Victim Support.
Detective Senior Sergeant Albie Alexander, Officer in Charge of the Counties Manukau Crime Squad says " A scene examination of the premises and vehicles is currently underway and CIB staff from Counties Manukau are following very positive leads regarding the identity of the two outstanding suspects."
"We have had a successful outcome with no significant injuries. However, it could easily have been a very different situation."
"Police would like to remind members of the public that the best thing they can do in a situation like this is to take note of vehicle details and descriptions of the people involved, including what they are wearing, and to call 111 as soon as possible."
"Keeping yourself and others safe should be your primary concern."
If you have any information regarding this incident please contact Counties Manukau Police on 2611300 or you can anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Natalie Swart
Communications Manager - Counties Manukau Police District
027 434 2218