Police Hunt Bottle Shop Bandit

By Andrew Starke

Sydney police have requested the assistance of the liquor trade and public in apprehending those responsible for a spate of robberies in the inner west.

The Metropolitan Robbery Unit is investigating seven thefts, with three of these having taken place at liquor stores and one at a pub.

According to police, the thefts have occurred on the following dates and locations:

• 6 January 2010 – 12.55am – a petrol station on Unwins Bridge Road at Sydenham;
• 9 January 2010 – 1.50am – a convenience store on Stanmore Road at Stanmore;
• 17 January 2010 – 9.40pm – hotel on Harris Street at Pyrmont;
• 22 January 2010 – 9.30pm - a bottle shop on Mitchell Street at Alexandria;
• 26 January 2010 – 2.40pm – a wine shop on Unwins Bridge Road at Sydenham;
• 12 February 2010 – 10.50pm – a bottle shop on Mitchell Street in Alexandria; and,
• 26 February 2010 – 11.25pm – a supermarket in Earlwood

The majority of the robberies involved only one offender, however, on one occasion, two offenders were involved.

One of the thieves was armed with a firearm and the second person was armed with an axe. Both persons were wearing motor cycle helmets.

In each case, the thief has used a stolen motor cycle to travel to and from the premises.

The man then enters the premises without removing his motor cycle helmet, and uses a gun to threaten staff.

During each robbery, a small amount of money has been stolen and the offender then escapes using the stolen motor cycle.

Anyone with information about the thefts, or the current whereabouts or identity of persons who may be able to assist with inquiries, is asked to contact Strike Force Strone investigators on 9375 8440 or 9375 8424, or Crime Stoppers on 1 800 333 000.