Weapon-carrying robbers target busy Whanganui dairy in broad daylight

Police are appealing for witnesses to the aggravated robbery of the Hospital Dairy in Heads Rd.

Tobacco products were the target in a brazen daytime aggravated robbery at the Hospital Dairy in Heads Rd.

Whanganui Police senior sergeant Shayne Wainhouse said two males carrying weapons entered the dairy just after 1pm on Saturday, November 18. The shop is opposite Whanganui Hospital and a well-frequented taxi stand on a busy road.

"The two males parked outside and went into the store," Mr Wainhouse said.

"They stole cigarettes before fleeing in the vehicle. Fortunately no one in the shop was injured. It is a busy area and we are asking anyone who saw anything relating to this incident to contact police."

One male is described as wearing a black hoodie, black trousers and a baseball cap. The other was wearing a black hoodie and grey trousers. Mr Wainhouse said the weapons they carried were not firearms.

There have been at least 12 aggravated robberies in Whanganui since December last year, with cigarettes a common target.

Anyone with information about the Hospital Dairy robbery should contact Detective Senior Sergeant Phil Taylor at Whanganui Police on 349 0600 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.