Detectives release CCTV of gun robbery of United Petroleum service station at East Maitland

An East Maitland service station attendant was threatened with a rifle during a late-night armed robbery by a masked man wearing distinctive red shoes.

A masked bandit with distinctive red boots has been caught on security footage threatening an East Maitland service station employee with a rifle.

The suspect entered the United Petroleum service station on Newcastle Rd about 10.15pm on January 4.

Detectives have released CCTV vision as investigations continue into an armed robbery at East Maitland on January 4. Picture: NSW Police.

He walked to the counter and threatened a 27-year-old employee with a rifle, demanding cash and cigarettes.

He was last seen running from the store in a westerly direction.

The employee was not physically injured during the robbery.

Detectives have released CCTV vision as investigations continue into an armed robbery at East Maitland on January 4. Picture: NSW Police.

A crime scene was established and Port Stephens-Hunter detectives took over the investigation.

Nearly a month on, detectives have released CCTV of the robbery in a bid to identify the bandit.

He appeared to be wearing a black mask and a red baseball cap covered by a hoodie.

Detectives have released CCTV vision as investigations continue into an armed robbery at East Maitland on January 4. Picture: NSW Police.

He was also wearing dark-coloured clothing and red sneakers.

Police have described him as being of a solid build, between 160-165cm tall, with a dark complexion.

Information should be forwarded to Maitland police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.