Punch aimed at face during attempted shoplifting

Police investigating attempted shoplifting at Ranolf Superette on Thursday. PHOTO/ BEN FRASER

A dairy owner's sharp reflexes meant he avoided a punch to the face in an attempted shoplifting.

Kiran and Mita Patel have owned the Ranolf Superette, on the corner of Wallace Cres and Ranolf St, for eight years without incident.

They say they live with threats most days but this is the first time there has been any threat of violence.

Mrs Patel said a group of five teenage boys, who they recognised as regulars, were hanging around outside the dairy yesterday.

About 10.30am one came into the store and her husband thought he was attempting to steal a can of drink.

He challenged the boy and another came into the store, Mrs Patel said.
Mr Patel said one of them took a swing at him.
"But he missed me and hit the lollies instead. We get threats a lot; that's the life in dairy.
"But if you don't tell them they will keep doing it."
The boys then ran off.

Mrs Patel said the incident was scary.
"We didn't know what they could be capable of. They come every day, usually when I'm here alone; they're threatening. If you say something they'll come again and do something else.
"We worry for our safety."

Rotorua police acting prevention manager Senior Sergeant Nicky Riordan said the incident was initially treated as an aggravated robbery.
Police were reviewing CCTV footage and looking to talk with teenagers believed to be involved, she said.