Counties Manukau Police are investigating an aggravated robbery incident at the Mobil petrol station on Mt Wellington Highway.
At around 1:25am two people, one armed with a shot gun, arrived at the petrol station and demanded to be let inside. There were two people working at the petrol station at the time, both of whom retreated to a locked back office.
The offenders gained entry to the store by smashing a glass panel in one of the front doors. They have fired a shot in an attempt to get access to the counter area and then taken the till drawer and tobacco products.
Both offenders then fled the shop through the broken front door and are seen on CCTV leaving the scene in a white Nissan.
Shortly after, a stolen white Nissan Skyline was found parked in New Brighton Road, less than a kilometre from the scene, with the engine still running. It is believed this is the getaway vehicle used by the offenders.
“It is concerning that these offenders have brought a loaded weapon with them and have been prepared to discharge it,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Pizzini. “Thankfully no one was injured in this incident but we are concerned about the brazenness and determination of these offenders.”
Police were called to the store immediately and began their scene examination, which will continue today on both the Mobil station and the recovered stolen car.
CCTV footage has revealed the face of one of the offenders when his mask slipped below his nose.
“It’s very likely that the people responsible for this crime told somebody about what they did. Information from the public will be essential to track these people down and prevent them from committing a similar offence or hurting someone. It’s vitally important that anyone who knows anything about this incident or recognises the person pictured comes forward to Police immediately.”
Anyone with information should contact Counties Manukau Police Crime Squad directly on 09 261 1321 or to provide information anonymously contact the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Kimberley Mathews/Communications Manager, Counties Manukau Police
09 263 2702
021 192 0717
