Fog cannon thwarts Gisborne dairy robbery attempt, police investigating

Police are following what they call "strong lines of inquiry" after an attempt to rob the Riverdale Food Market on Monday night. Photo / Murray Robertson

An attempt was made to rob the Riverdale Food Market at the corner of Stout St and Atkinson St on Monday night, but the store’s fog cannon intervened.

The incident happened about 7pm.

Police said a man entered the store and threatened a staff member.

“But the shop fog cannon was activated and the man made off empty-handed,” police said.

“We are following positive lines of inquiry.

“No one was hurt in the incident.”

The fog cannon in the shop was activated and the alleged robber made off empty-handed. Photo / Murray Robertson

Fire and Emergency New Zealand also received a call about the incident and sent a crew to the scene.

“Passersby thought the fog coming from the shop was smoke,” a senior firefighter said.

“We helped ventilate the premises.”