Dunedin Police are keeping an open mind into the possibility that two recent attempted robberies in the city may be linked.
The first happened at Tandoree Garden takeaway on Prince Albert Road at about 6.20pm on Wednesday, 17 August 2016. A young female entered the store and presented a weapon before stealing a small sum of cash from the till.
The second occurred at about 7.20pm on Thursday 18 August, 2016, when a young-looking woman wearing a balaclava entered a dairy on the corner of Prince Albert Road and Victoria Road in St Kilda.
She pointed a weapon at the owner and demanded money. When the owner backed away the offender reached over the counter and tried to open the till, but she failed and left empty-handed.
"Although the location and timings of these recent robberies are similar, at this early stage in both investigations we can’t confirm they have been committed by the same person," said Detective Sergeant Rob Hanna.
He also asked business owners in the city to remain vigilant and to report any incidents of concern to Police.
"We would advise anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation to comply with the offender's demands and not get into a physical confrontation in anyway. The risks just aren't worth it.
Anyone who may have information about the robberies is asked to contact Dunedin Police on 03 471 4800. Alternatively you can provide information to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre