Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward following two knifepoint robberies at shops in Weymouth.
Dorset Police was called at 6.53am on Sunday 8 November 2020 to reports of a break to the Hidden Gem Kebab takeaway shop in Littlemoor Shopping Centre.
The offender smashed a window to gain entry. He was confronted by a member of staff before brandishing a knife and leaving on a bicycle into the Littlemoor estate via Canberra Crescent.
The member of staff sustained an injury to his hand, which is not said to be serious and did not require hospital treatment. Nothing was stolen.
At 9.20am officers were called to reports of a knifepoint robbery at the Co-op store in Preston Road.
A quantity of cash and cigarettes were stolen before the suspect left the store running down the hill toward Fisherbridge Road. No injuries were sustained.
Both shops have been cordoned off while crime scene investigators examiners the store.
Detective Inspector Scott Johnson, of Weymouth CID, said: “I would like to reassure the public that a full investigation is underway into these incidents, which at this time are being treated as linked.
“The public can expect to see an increased level of police activity in the Weymouth area while we search for the suspect, and this will include armed officers.
“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will also be patrolling the area and can be approached with any concerns.
“I am appealing for the public’s help and would urge anyone who witnessed these incidents or saw any suspicious activity at either location to please contact Dorset Police immediately.
“I am also keen to hear from anyone who was travelling in the area and may have captured anything of relevance on dashcam to please contact us.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 8:102 for the Hidden Gem incident or 8:139 for the Co-op incident. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.
