Aggravated robbery at Tauranga pub

Photo/George Novak

UPDATED: 9.44pm: Police are still searching for a man who allegedly stole a sum of money from McSwiggans Irish Pub during an aggravated robbery this afternoon.

Police were called to the pub about 12.30pm.

There was a heavy police presence at McSwiggan's Irish Pub this afternoon with two marked police cars parked outside the pub as well as numerous unmarked police cars. At least three other units were parked on the street below the shopping area.

The pub was forced to close for the rest of the day following the robbery as police investigated the scene.

Police would like to hear from anyone who has information about a solidly built male wearing dark clothing seen running from the Cambridge Heights Shopping Centre.

Police would not elaborate on how much money was stolen or whether a weapon was involved.

Phone the Tauranga Police on (07) 577 4300 or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you have information.

EARLIER: Reports are coming in of police searching for a man after an incident at a Tauranga pub.

There is a heavy police presence in the area of the Cambridge Rd shopping centre.

It is understood an aggravated robbery has taken place at McSwiggans Irish Pub.

Bay of Plenty Police District communications manager Kim Perks confirmed there had been an aggravated robbery in the Cambridge Rd, Bethlehem area, but could not give any further details.

A reporter at the scene said police dogs were inside the pub and two police cars were parked outside, with three others parked on the road below the shopping centre.

More to come.