Robbers on the run after taking off with cash, assaulting patron
Patrons enjoying a drink at their neighbourhood pub have been left traumatised as two armed men stormed a Townsville pub demanding cash.
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PATRONS enjoying a drink at their neighbourhood pub have been left traumatised as two armed men stormed a Townsville pub demanding cash.
QPS confirmed two armed men entered the Royal Hotel on Stagpole Street in West just after 11.30pm threatening staff and patrons.
Townsville Police District Duty Officer Senior Sergeant Matt Lyons said a female staff member serving behind the bar was forced to hand over cash before a scuffle broke out when a patron challenged the robber in an attempt to disarm him.
“The object that looked like a firearm was removed from one offender and he has fallen to the ground, Snr Sgt Lyons said.
“The other offender has left the hotel (and) a short time later that male has returned and assaulted a patron with another weapon before both offenders have left the hotel in a Black Holden Commodore.
“The patron that was assaulted received a laceration to his head and transported to Townsville University Hospital in a stable condition.”
While Snr Sgt Lyons did not condone members of the public attempting a citizen arrest or intervening in a volatile situation, he said it was likely the patron identified the firearm was not legitimate.
“We’re certainly not saying it’s a gel blaster, it was more likely parts of firearms that were made to look like a weapon,” Snr Sgt Lyons said.
“That also shows a level of planning by the offender.
“The intervention of the patrons probably prevented further money being stolen but it also put them in a predicament where they were assaulted and we would just encourage people to be cautious.”
Forensic investigators have now begun combing over evidence looking for any trace of evidence that could lead them to the offenders.
Snr Sgt Lyons said the Townsville Criminal Investigation Branch has been tasked with the incident and were conducting inquiries and reviewing CCTV footage.
He said the neighbourhood horror wasn’t being taken lightly with QPS asking any one with information to call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.
“Patrons and witnesses present have spoken in what could be described as a hysteria event for them,” Snr Sgt Lyons said.
“And certainly we will use all avenues to investigate this matter and bring offenders to justice.
“Any anonymous information regarding this matter will be appreciated.”
Snr Sgt Lyons said residents of Idalia, particularly those surrounding Springbrook Parade are encouraged to hand over any footage of people in the area filmed from 1.30am onwards after a burnt out car, likely to be the one involved was found by police shortly after 2am
Originally published as Robbers on the run after taking off with cash, assaulting patron