Please attribute to Detective Sergeant Craig Vining:
Hawkes Bay CIB are investigating the aggravated robbery of a pizza delivery driver late last night in central Napier.
The offenders, a group of four or five males, called in a pizza order and waited for the 22-year-old male victim to arrive.
The victim pulled up to the rear driveway/carpark of the Quality Inn Hotel, Hastings Street just before 11pm.
One of the male offenders then threatened him with a weapon and physically assaulted him on the footpath.
One of the offenders entered the victim’s car and took his personal cell phone, the pizza order and cash.
The victim was treated for minor injuries. Police are ensuring he is supported and he is recovering well despite this ordeal.
The group of offenders initially ran towards The Warehouse driveway before heading in the direction of the RSA building on the corner of Hastings and Vautier Streets.
The offenders were described as being between the ages of 12-16 years-old. It is likely at least two of them were using push scooters, one of which was recovered by Police (see attached photos).
We are working hard to quickly identify these boys and ensure others are not at risk.
Local premises have been contacted for their CCTV footage.
We ask that anyone who may recognise the scooter in the attached photo or can tell us who it belongs to contact Napier Police on 06 831 0700.
We also want to hear from anyone who observed this group of offenders hanging around in the Hastings Street area for a period of time leading up to this incident.
Police understand the group were acting in a disorderly fashion and making a lot of noise so we think people would have noticed them.
If you saw them or witnessed this group or have knowledge as to who they are, please don’t hesitate to call us. You can also provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
