Kaiti TAB patrons pelt men to thwart robbery

File picture

THREE alleged robbers faced a hot reception last night at the Kaiti Mall TAB as irate patrons pelted two of them with furniture and drink containers.

Police said while that was happening the third man grabbed a small amount of cash from behind the counter and they all ran off.

“Three males entered the TAB at 7.30pm last night and they were armed with weapons, including a hammer,” said Detective Sergeant Kevin Ford.

“They were only in the TAB for a short time.”

Det Sgt Ford said the crowd of people in the TAB began throwing items at them.

“They ran off behind the Kaiti Mall to Craig Road, then across into Wildish Street. They were seen running in that direction.

“We believe the trio may have left in a car that had been parked waiting in Wildish Street.”

Det Sgt Ford said the three men were disguised.

“They had their faces covered. One was described as six feet in height and of slim build. Another was a bit shorter and stockier. We have only pretty indistinct descriptions at this stage.

“We have still got a lot of people to talk to who were in the TAB.”

Police have also reviewed CCTV footage.

“We want to hear from anyone who saw these three people running and then driving off in a car,” Det Sgt Ford said.

“We also want to hear from anyone who saw a car waiting with someone in it in Wildish Street at about 7.30pm last night. It would also be good to hear from anyone who was in the Mall carpark area prior to the incident.”

None of the TAB staff or patrons was injured in the robbery. It is not known if any of the three offenders were injured.