Police close in on trio of violent offenders

A MANHUNT is underway for a trio violent offenders who left a trail of evidence while fleeing a Townsville pub following a terrifying armed hold up.

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A MANHUNT is underway for a trio violent offenders who left a trail of evidence while fleeing a Townsville pub following a terrifying armed hold up.

Detective acting Senior Sergeant Tony Flanders said investigators were closing in on offenders, with forensic evidence and CCTV footage playing a crucial part in identifying the trio responsible for targeting the Royal Hotel in West End on Saturday night.

The armed hold up began to unfold about 11.30pm when two armed men – dressed in black from head to toe – stormed the small neighbourhood pub demanding cash, while their getaway driver waited outside in a stolen car.

Things didn’t go to plan for the masked crooks when a punter stepped in and tackled one of them to the ground, removing his makeshift weapon in the process and prompting the man with the cash to flee, only to return with a crowbar.

It’s understood he then used the weapon to assault patrons before fleeing the scene in a black Holden Commodore and later burning it in Idalia.

Sen-Sgt Flanders said the crowbar used in the assault, along with property left behind and CCTV footage, was being reviewed by investigators.

“Forensic examinations are continuing to be conducted in relation to that property,” Sen-Sgt Flanders

“Likewise, inquiries are being conducted in relation to the vehicle that was used.”

Stolen Holden Commodore used in violent armed robbery at the Royal Hotel in West End, Townsville.

The attack was eerily similar to an armed hold up that took place in the same suburb at the same time of night just weeks prior when men armed with guns threatened a gaming attendant and the manager at the West End Hotel on Ingham Road on September 28.

“Police are certainly carrying out inquiries in relation to whether it’s linked to any other offences.

“And, whether there’s any links between these two robberies, and those inquiries are certainly ongoing.”

He said it was critical that anyone who could assist investigations to contact police directly or call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

“It would certainly be the case that the offenders themselves may have received some injuries, to what extent is unknown,” he said.

“There’d be no doubt that someone would know the identity of the offenders involved in this offence.

“We would ask that if anyone has any information, then please call Crime Stoppers, call police link, call your local police station, let us know.”

A spokeswoman from the group that owns the Royal Hotel, Australian Venue Co said it was a matter for the police and declined to comment.

Originally published as Police close in on trio of violent offenders