Armed robbery with screwdriver in Katikati ends in Tauranga after a police chase

The crash happened at 2pm. Photo / File A_250618WCBRCBlo05.JPG

The aggravated robbery of a Katikati liquor store with a screwdriver ended with the arrest of two youths this afternoon.

A police spokesman said two youths entered the Bottle-O on Main Rd around 1pm armed with a screwdriver before taking off with cigarettes and cash in a stolen vehicle.

The driver fled from police and spikes were deployed.

The vehicle came to a stop at the intersection of Cameron Rd and 15th Ave in Tauranga South - nearly 40km from the robbery.

The offenders are due to appear in Tauranga Youth Court tomorrow.

The weapon used during the robbery was recovered, along with the stolen items from the store.

Police would like to thank members of the public for their assistance.

Earlier:

Police responded to a crash on the corner of 15th Ave and Cameron Rd in Tauranga at 2pm.

A police media spokeswoman said it was unclear if there were any injuries at this stage.

Police could not yet confirm the nature of the crash.