Launceston Police are pursuing a line of inquiry regarding two armed robberies at Invermay and Mowbray businesses on the afternoon of Saturday, January 12.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The first incident occurred at 3.45pm at Invermay Newsagency, on Invermay Road.
The offender “menaced” newsagency staff with a screwdriver and demanded money, Acting Detective Inspector John Parker said.
The second incident occurred only 20 minutes later, nearby at the Pizza Hut store in Mowbray.
The store is also located on Invermay Road.
On that occasion a man threatened staff with a machete and demanded money from the till.
A “small quantity” of money, with the exact amount undisclosed, was taken by the man.
There were no injuries resulting from either incident.
Detective Inspector Parker said police had identified Shaun Andrew Blake as a person they wanted to speak with in relation to the matter.
Mr Blake is described as a Caucasian male, 40 years of age, and living at an unknown address in Launceston.
Detective Inspector Parker said that despite extensive police efforts to locate Mr Blake, he had not been found.
Police are seeking the assistance of the public in their efforts to find, and speak to, Mr Blake.
“It would be best if Mr Blake was able to contact police and I urge him to do that as soon as possible,” Detective Inspector Parker said.
Anyone who witnessed either incident on Saturday, or have information is asked to contact Launceston Police on (03) 6230 2111.
Otherwise, information can be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.
IN OTHER NEWS:
While you're with us, did you know that you can now sign up to receive breaking news updates and daily headlines direct to your inbox. Sign up here.