Hamilton Police investigating the aggravated robbery of an East Hamilton store this morning are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Detective Sergeant Neville Ross of the Hamilton CIB said the incident occurred about 9.30am at the Manhattan Pricecutter store on Grey St, near the intersection of Albert and Wellington Streets.
"A female shop assistant was threatened after a man walked into the store, pulled a pistol from his jacket pocket and demanded cash and tobacco.
"He left with a sum of money and a packet of cigarettes," said Mr Ross.
The offender is described as a male, believed to be Maori but with lighter complexion, tall of thin build, believed aged in his late teens early twenties.
"Officers have canvassed neighbouring addresses but are asking for people who were in Grey St south of the shopping centre at 9.30am, to contact Police.
"We're especially keen to contact a woman believed aged in her 50's who was outside the diary at the time of the offence."
Anyone with any information on the robbery, the identity of the offenders or who the woman outside the store may have been is asked to contact Mr Ross at the Hamilton Central Police Station on 07 858 6200.
Alternatively information can be left anonymously on the Crimestoppers crimeline; 0800 555111.
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