Christchurch Police are continuing to investigate an aggravated robbery that occurred in Woolston on Saturday 1st October, where cigarettes and cash were stolen.
Detective Sergeant Craig Johnson says Police are following positive lines of enquiry.
“All robberies, which include either violence or a threat of violence, are of concern and are taken seriously by Police.
“While violence or weapons may not always be used, any incident is traumatic for the victims, and Police is committed to providing them with appropriate support and preventing further victimisations,” says Detective Sergeant Johnson.
In addition to the Woolston robbery, Christchurch Police are currently investigating a number of burglaries where cigarettes have been targeted. These are often burglaries that occur overnight when premises are shut.
Over the course of several months, the regular targeting of cigarettes by criminals has become a real concern for Police.
Police have increased patrols to focus on combating incidents of this nature in Christchurch, along with encouraging retailers to increase shop security.
Police would like to remind members of the public that purchasing cigarettes they know are stolen can result in prosecution. If an offer seems too good to be true, then it usually is.
“Anyone involved with the illegal selling or buying of tobacco or other products is likely to find themselves the subject of Police interest,” says Detective Sergeant Johnson.
ENDS