Three men have appeared in the North Shore District Court after a two month police investigation into the aggravated robberies of three local liquor stores.
A 23 year old unemployed, North Shore male, has appeared in the North Shore District Court for his role in each of the three incidents. He's been remanded in custody until 13 November 2008.
A 22 year old male painter from Howick, and a 22 year old unemployed North Shore man have also appeared in Court and they've been released on bail. Further court appearances are expected on or about the 20 November 2008.
The three men are charged with the aggravated robbery of the Pupuke Wines and Spirits liquor store in Sunnynook, the Onewa Road Liquor Centre, and the Forrest Hill Liquor Centre in September and October 2008. The maximum penalty for this offence is 14 years imprisonment.
Detective Sergeant Craig McCormack says the sole Indian and two Korean operators of the three liquor stores were threatened by armed and masked offenders. The experience traumatised them.
North Shore Area Commander Inspector Les Paterson says he was always confident that his CIB staff would make the necessary arrests during their investigation of these armed hold ups. Police are continuing their enquiries.
ENDS:
Kevin [Kev] Loughlin
District Communications Manager / Media Advisor
Phone 09 488 9758 - Extn 96308 / Mobile 027 281 0271
Email - kevin.loughlin@police.govt.nz