Three in court over North Shore liquor robberies

Three men have appeared in court over the aggravated robberies of three liquor stores on Auckland's North Shore.

The arrests come after a two-month investigation into the aggravated robbery of the Pupuke Wines and Spirits liquor store in Sunnynook, the Onewa Road Liquor Centre, and the Forrest Hill Liquor Centre in September and October.

A 23-year-old unemployed man from the North Shore appeared in North Shore District Court today charged over his role in each of the robberies.

The man was remanded in custody until November 13.

A 22-year-old male painter from Howick and a 22-year-old unemployed North Shore man also appeared in court and were released on bail.

Further court appearances are expected on November 20.

Detective Sergeant Craig McCormack said the sole Indian and two Korean operators of the three liquor stores were threatened by armed and masked offenders and had been traumatised by the experience.

North Shore area commander Inspector Les Paterson said he was always confident his CIB staff would make the arrests .

Police are continuing their inquiries.

- NZPA