By Esther Lauaki
Footage released by police last week shows dramatic scenes as three offenders flee following a robbery at a tobacco store in Sunbury.
Police are appealing for information after the three men entered the Evans Street store, wearing balaclavas over their faces, about 7.20am on September 18.
It is alleged that one offender jumped over the service counter and grabbed the female store attendant by her hair, forcing her to open two registers and demanding cash.
Two other men went into a rear store room and loaded a large haul of cigarettes into a blanket.
The offenders forced their way into a rear office area and stole cash located inside, as well as the victim’s handbag, police said.
The three men fled to a waiting black Holden Cruze sedan, bearing registration AAI-002.
As they attempted to leave the scene, the offenders collided with another vehicle and sustained substantial damage to the front passenger-side door.
The Holden was sighted on the Tullamarine Freeway, in the vicinity of the airport, and was last seen travelling north along Pascoe Vale Road towards Craigieburn.
The 51-year-old store attendant was unharmed.
Hume Crime Investigation Unit detectives are keen to speak to any witnesses or anyone with dash cam footage in the area at the time.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
