Police have arrested a man for the robbery of a Hamilton restaurant on Father’s Day.
Staff at Smith & McKenzie Steak House restaurant in Chartwell were preparing for a busy day ahead when three people arrived in a stolen vehicle at around 11.20am on 7 September.
Two heavily disguised offenders went inside the restaurant, presented a firearm at staff and stole a small amount of money. They all fled the scene.
A short time later, Police located the vehicle nearby.
Detective Sergeant Matthew Lee says a search warrant was conducted in Enderley early this morning with the assistance of the Armed Offenders Squad.
“A 41-year-old man, a gang associate, was arrested.
“We also located ammunition, drugs, multiple stolen vehicles and stolen property.
“Also, two women were arrested after walking out with children – we found cash and a large quantity of methamphetamine in a handbag concealed under a young child’s blanket.”
One woman, age 24, was charged with possession of methamphetamine and utensils and has been bailed to reappear at the Hamilton District Court on 16 October.
The other woman, age 41, had bail opposed and was charged with possession for supply of methamphetamine and possession of LSD and Ecstacy. She will appear in Hamilton District Court tomorrow morning.
The man, aged 41, appeared in Hamilton District Court today charged with aggravated robbery, taking a motor vehicle and unlawful possession of ammunition. He was remanded in custody to reappear on 31 October.
The investigation is ongoing and Police have not ruled out further arrests.
Staff at the restaurant are pleased with the outcome.
Says Detective Sergeant Lee, “I would like to reassure the community that police are working exceptionally hard to ensure public and business owners are safe and feel safe in our communities.”
Banish to the outskirts